Availability And Accessibility Of Information Resources By Students In Tertiary Institution
(A Case Study Of Fed Poly Nekede Owerri)
In tertiary institutions, the accessibility and availability of information resources play a crucial role in shaping students’ academic success and intellectual development. The ability for students to readily access diverse informational materials, including textbooks, journals, digital databases, and academic papers, significantly enriches their learning experience and fosters a culture of inquiry and critical thinking. Ensuring robust accessibility involves creating user-friendly interfaces for digital libraries, implementing efficient cataloging systems, and providing ample physical and virtual spaces for study and research. Additionally, institutions must prioritize the continuous updating and expansion of their resource collections to cater to evolving academic needs and emerging areas of study. By optimizing the availability and accessibility of information resources, tertiary institutions empower students to engage deeply with their coursework, broaden their intellectual horizons, and cultivate essential skills for lifelong learning and professional success.
The research was designed to investigate the availability and accessibility of information resources of federal polytechnic nekede students. The library promoter’s economic and social growth of the student daily needs to be more appreciated in our society.
The available resources of the library emanate from direct purchase, gift, inter library organize the information material preserves and makes them accessible to user of the library.
Title Page
Certification Page
Dedication
Acknowledgment
Abstract
Table Of Content
Chapter One
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background
1.2 Statement Of The Problem
1.3 Significance Of The Study
1.4 Objective Of The Study
1.5 Scope Of The Study
Chapter Two
2.0 Literature Review
Chapter Three
3.0 Methodology
Chapter Four
4.0 Findings And Discussion
Chapter Five
5.0 Summary And Recommendations
Bibliography
Appendix
Questionnaires
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The effect of any organization’s operations depends, to a large extent on irritability, management and accessibility of relevant information. Every organization needs information and records that are vital for it operations. These records are of two kinds. The entire which are needed to conduct the day activities, and the erective, which must be filled and retained for or definite number of years are specified by how or organizational poly.
1.1 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF THE CASE STUDY
The Federal Polytechnic Nekede Owerri was initially established as the college of Technology Owerri by Edict No. 16 dated 1st April 1978. in 1987 , it was renamed the Polytechnic by Imo State Government. The Institution was taken over by the Federal Government in April 1993 and is now governed by Federal |Polytechnic Act. The Institution is Located in Nekede about 5Km from the metropolitan capital of Imo State, Owerri. The campus comprises of B. 8 lectures of land.
The permanent site of the Library is opposite the famous Imo lecture Hall (School of Business). The current building was completed in the year 2000 and commenced services to public in 2001.
The Federal Polytechnic Nekede Library has different sections which include: the technical section (acquisition, classifying and cataloguing) circulation section, Administration leaders service, serial section and the andio-visual section. It also has the reprographic section which has different machines for the reproduction of Library materials. The library users the library of congress classification scheme which has mixed notation.
The Polytechnic Library stores, a collection of materials relevant to student of the institution teaching and non-teaching staff and people living around Nekede who are carrying out research. Presently, the Library has about 38 staffs.
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
This study is seeking answer to the following question.
i. What are the available resources in Federal Polytechnic Library?
ii. What is the procedure for making the resources available its user?
iii. What are the problems encountered by users in drying to have access to information resources?
iv. What are the problems encountered in accessing the information resources?
1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
The objectives of the study are to:
1. Determine the various types of information resources available in the Library.
2. To find out the various forms of information resources in Federal Polytechnic Nekede Library.
3. To what extent can the Federal Polytechnic Nekede Library improve on the accessibly and availability of information resources to its users.
4. Proffer recommendation and suggestion on how the problem could be remedied.
1.4 RESEARCH QUESTION
a. To what extent can the Federal Polytechnic Nekede Library improve on the availability and accessibility of information resources to its users?
b. What are the available materials in the Federal Polytechnic Nekede Library?
c. What do you understand by availability and accessibility of information resources?
d. What is information?
1.5 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY
This study is limited to Federal Polytechnic Nekede Library. It focused is on the availability and accessibility of information resources of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede Library, in achieving the aims and objectives of the student. It covers all the direct services to users. However, the availability and accessibility of information resources, which are the services to users, have been manifested.
1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
The study is essential because it is hoped to provide an
In sight into availability and accessibility of information
resources of Federal Polytechnic Nekede Library (Owerri).
1.7 OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS
Below is the definition of the contextual use of terms in
The study
i. Availability: – Is information the Library has in stock that is ready for use.
ii. Information:- The collection of processed data for easy retrieval
iii. Accessibility: – Permission or opportunity to use a document.
Availability And Accessibility Of Information Resources By Students In Tertiary Institution:
Availability and accessibility of information resources are crucial factors for the academic success and personal development of students in tertiary institutions. These resources include textbooks, academic journals, digital libraries, internet access, and other materials necessary for research, learning, and skill development. Here’s an overview of these aspects:
- Physical Resources:
- Library Facilities: Tertiary institutions should have well-equipped libraries with a wide range of books, periodicals, and reference materials. These libraries should also provide comfortable study spaces.
- Laboratories: For science and engineering students, access to well-maintained laboratories is essential for conducting experiments and practical work.
- Classrooms: Adequate classroom space with modern technology is important for lectures and discussions.
- Study Spaces: Quiet and conducive spaces for individual and group study are essential for students to concentrate on their coursework.
- Digital Resources:
- Online Libraries and Databases: Tertiary institutions should provide students with access to digital libraries and databases such as JSTOR, ProQuest, and other academic resources. This enables students to access scholarly articles, e-books, and research papers.
- Learning Management Systems (LMS): Institutions often use platforms like Moodle, Blackboard, or Canvas to manage course content, assignments, and communication with students.
- E-books and E-Journals: Offering electronic versions of textbooks and academic journals makes it easier for students to access required reading materials.
- Open Educational Resources (OER): Promoting the use of open educational resources, which are freely available online, can reduce the financial burden on students and increase accessibility.
- Internet Access:
- A reliable and high-speed internet connection is crucial for students to access online resources, participate in virtual classes, and conduct research.
- Campuses should have Wi-Fi coverage in key areas like libraries, classrooms, and student common areas.
- Accessibility Services:
- Tertiary institutions should offer services and resources for students with disabilities to ensure equal access to information. This may include screen readers, accessible formats of textbooks, and physical accommodations.
- Extended Hours:
- Libraries and computer labs should have extended hours, especially during exam periods, to accommodate students who prefer to study late or need extra time to complete assignments.
- Training and Support:
- Providing training on how to use library resources, online databases, and academic software can improve students’ ability to access and utilize information effectively.
- Offering technical support for IT-related issues ensures that students can access online resources without disruption.
- Affordability:
- Efforts should be made to reduce the financial burden on students. This can include affordable or subsidized access to textbooks, resources, and internet services.
- Copyright and Licensing:
- Institutions should adhere to copyright laws and licensing agreements when providing access to digital resources to avoid legal issues.
- Feedback Mechanisms:
- Establishing channels for students to provide feedback on the availability and accessibility of information resources can help institutions make improvements based on their needs.
- Adaptation to Technology Trends:
- Tertiary institutions should stay current with technological advancements and adapt their resources and infrastructure accordingly to meet evolving student needs.
In summary, ensuring the availability and accessibility of information resources for students in tertiary institutions is essential for their educational and personal growth. It requires a combination of physical and digital resources, reliable infrastructure, support services, and a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of students.