CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Throughout history, the fundamental goal of a researcher's work and creative thinking has been to produce new knowledge and insights. Fundamentally, research seeks to advance knowledge and tackle societal issues in order to propel advancement and further human development (Esse, 2024). In recent years there has been an increased focus on research rankings of universities and other universities (colleges). This has increased the pressure on researchers to perform and produce research results, while at the same time making them aware that research productivity can also benefit them in their career development.
Libraries can potentially play the role of increasing research productivity and improving the ranking of their respective parent organization (Hollister & Schroeder, 2015). Meeting the needs of the various user groups of the university or academic institute is a difficult balancing act for the library. Many graduate students rely on resources and services from their library to help them with their research. Libraries have the additional function of being “laboratory spaces” for AHSS (arts, humanities, social sciences) research students (Keller, 2015).
It remains to be seen whether libraries have the services to cover them all. And even if libraries provide all the necessary services, it is also a question of checking whether their users are aware of the services designed specifically for them.
A functioning and successful library essentially consists of two parts: (i) the timely provision of resources and services and (ii) creating awareness about the library. It is not enough for libraries to design and provide resources and information services, they must also actively market them to users (Fazal & Chakravarty, 2019). Otherwise, they will remain unused and users will remain unaware of the library's many useful services.
In the current dynamic and technology-driven era, libraries must actively leverage and proactively leverage their strengths if they want to help researchers. People generally prefer simpler methods of finding information, and these usually involve “googling” whatever they need to learn or find. While Google is helpful, it cannot compete with libraries in supporting their more complex, academic inquiries and researcher needs. Libraries have much more to offer than a search engine.
However, this requires librarians to adapt to the current situation and take on new roles to support and make their customers aware (Fazal & Chakravarty, 2019). By offering valuable resources and services to support scientific and technological advancements, libraries in Nigeria play a crucial role in fostering research and innovation. Nigerian libraries, as information centers, play a vital role in connecting academics with the wealth of information needed for innovative and cutting-edge research.
They provide access to scientific journals, databases and other resources that are crucial for high-quality research results. Academic libraries in Nigeria have proactively improved their services to support research activities. For example, Olajide (2021) highlights that many Nigerian university libraries are investing in digital resources and advanced information systems to improve access to scholarly materials, enabling more efficient research processes (Olajide, 2021, “Library and Information Services for Research Enhancement in”) Nigerian Universities, International Journal of Library Science).
Library investments are necessary to guarantee that researchers have access to up-to-date, thorough information. In addition to acting as resource centers, Nigerian libraries play a crucial role in fostering innovation by providing collaborative spaces and technology-enabled environments. Akinwale (2022) highlights that institutions such as the Nigerian National Library and various university libraries have established innovation centers and makerspaces that enable experimentation and collaboration between researchers and entrepreneurs (“Innovation and Collaboration in Nigerian Libraries,” *Journal of Information Technology*). These facilities drive the development of new technologies and solutions, significantly improving Nigeria's innovation ecosystem.
Furthermore, the contribution of libraries to building research capacity cannot be overstated.
Nwogbaga and Adedokun (2020) emphasize that libraries in Nigeria conduct workshops and training programs aimed at improving the skills and knowledge of researchers, which is essential for effective research performance (Nwogbaga & Adedokun, 2020, “Capacity Building and Its Impact on Research Performance." in Nigerian Libraries," Library Review. These educational initiatives are critical to ensuring that researchers are well-equipped to tackle complex research tasks and contribute to the advancement of their field.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the critical role libraries play in supporting research and innovation, several challenges impede their effectiveness in Nigeria. One major issue is the lack of adequate and up-to-date resources. Many Nigerian libraries struggle with insufficient funding, which limits their ability to acquire and maintain modern digital databases and academic journals. According to Ibrahim (2021), this shortage of resources significantly hampers researchers' access to the latest information, thereby affecting the quality and scope of their research (Ibrahim, 2021, "Enhancing Research through Digital Libraries: The Nigerian Experience," Digital Library Perspectives). This lack of resources also stifles innovation, as researchers may not have access to the latest tools and technologies needed for groundbreaking work.
Another problem is the limited infrastructure and technological support available in many Nigerian libraries. While some libraries have made strides in creating digital and collaborative spaces, many others lack the necessary infrastructure to support modern research activities. Ogundele (2019) notes that inadequate technological facilities and outdated systems in Nigerian libraries prevent effective dissemination and utilization of research findings, which in turn affects the innovation ecosystem (Ogundele, 2019, "The Impact of Library Resources on Research Output in Nigerian Higher Education Institutions," Journal of Academic Librarianship). This deficiency underscores the need for significant upgrades and investments to enable libraries to meet the evolving demands of researchers and innovators.Top of FormBottom of Form
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the role of libraries in supporting research and innovation in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To evaluate the existing infrastructure, resources, and services offered by Nigerian libraries, particularly in relation to their capacity to support research and innovation.
- To investigate the extent to which libraries contribute to the quality, quantity, and relevance of research outputs and innovative developments in Nigeria.
- To explore potential strategies and recommendations for improving the effectiveness of Nigerian libraries in promoting research and innovation.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What are the key challenges and limitations faced by Nigerian libraries in providing adequate support for research and innovation activities?
- How do Nigerian researchers perceive the role of libraries in facilitating their research activities, and what are the specific benefits they derive from library services?
- What policies, investments, and initiatives can be implemented to enhance the capacity and relevance of Nigerian libraries in supporting research and innovation?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant impact of libraries on supporting research and innovation in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Library Science sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analyzed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organizations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Ibom E-library. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Research Support
Assistance provided by libraries to researchers through access to information resources, research databases, and specialized services to enhance the quality and efficiency of their research activities.
2. Innovation Hub
A library-based facility or service designed to foster creativity and the development of new ideas by providing access to technology, collaborative spaces, and resources that support innovation.
3. Information Literacy
The ability to recognize when information is needed and to locate, evaluate, and effectively use that information. Libraries often provide training and resources to help individuals develop these skills.
4. Knowledge Management
The systematic process of capturing, distributing, and effectively using knowledge within an organization. Libraries play a crucial role by organizing and providing access to research materials and data.
5. Digital Repository
A digital storage system used by libraries to preserve and provide access to digital research outputs, including theses, dissertations, and scholarly articles.
6. Open Access Resources
Publications and research materials that are freely available online without subscription fees. Libraries support access to these resources to enhance research visibility and dissemination.
7. Collaborative Research
Research activities conducted by multiple researchers or institutions working together. Libraries support collaborative research by providing shared resources, meeting spaces, and tools for communication and data sharing.
