Factors Militating Against The Implementations Of Virtual Library Project In Public Colleges Of Education
(A case study Of Enugu State College of Education (Technical), Enugu)
The implementation of virtual library projects in public colleges of education faces several challenges that hinder their effectiveness. Firstly, inadequate funding significantly constrains the development and maintenance of robust virtual library systems, affecting the acquisition of digital resources, infrastructure setup, and technical support. Additionally, limited technological infrastructure and internet connectivity in some regions impede access to online resources and hinder the seamless operation of virtual libraries. Moreover, resistance to change and insufficient training among faculty and staff members pose barriers to the adoption and utilization of virtual library platforms. Furthermore, issues related to copyright compliance, data security, and digital literacy further complicate the successful implementation of virtual library projects. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from stakeholders to secure sufficient funding, enhance technological infrastructure, provide comprehensive training, and establish clear policies to support the sustainable implementation of virtual libraries in public colleges of education.
The position of the ‘child’ education in the educational advancement of the country can never be over-emphasized. Little wonder the interests shown by many state governments in Nigeria in the establishment of secondary schools and college of education for the laying of a solid education base and attaining perfection in contributing for the individual development in particular and helping in solving the problems of the society, and education base for Nigeria’s future educationists in general. Virtual library projects aims at attaining the above objectives of education. Implementation of this libraries projects in the country is a source of concern and hence the authors aimed to investigate the factors militating against the implementation in the public colleges of education in the south east.
Here a stratified random sampling of the respondents was used. The raw scores from the respondents were obtained and analysized with references to the research questions.
The study observed that high cost and inadequate funding is the major factor militating against the effective implementation of virtual library projects in the south east zone. Also observed is that governments of the zone involve themselves only in creating few opportunities for educating, training and retraining of library staff members. They also made some improvements in providing influx of current textbooks, journals, other texts as ways of virtual library services but the students and lecturers have not improved beyond processing information in internets. The study recommended use of special funding packages by both the governments and non-governmental organizations in improving the implementations of virtual library projects in the zone. This will help in focusing on collective acquisitions of hardwares, softwares requirements, electronic resources and databases, virtual classrooms, laboratories instrumentation and staff trainings.
Title Page
Approval page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgment
Table of contents
List of table
Abstract
CHAPTER ONE:
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
1.2 Statement of the problem
1.3 Objective of the Study
1.4 Research question
1.5 Purpose of the Study
1.6 Significance of the study
1.7 Scope/delimitations of the study
CHAPTER TWO:
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURES
2.1 Virtual library concepts
2.2 The need for effective implementations of virtual library projects
2.3 College virtual libraries and their advantages
2.4 Constraints to effective implementations of
virtual library projects in general
CHAPTER THREE:
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Research Design
3.2 Area of the Study
3.3 Population of the study
3.4 Sample and sample techniques
3.5 Instruments for data collections
3.6 Validity of the instruments
3.7 Reliability of the instruments
3.8 Method of data collection
3.9 Method of data analysis
CHAPTER FOUR
PRESENTATIONS OF RESULTS
4.1 Date Presentation
4.2 Analysis of Data Presentation
CHAPTER FIVE:
DISCUSSIONS OF RESULTS, RECOMMENDATION AND CONCLUSION
5.1 Summary of results
5.2 Discussion of findings
5.3 Educational Implication
5.4 Recommendations
5.5 Suggestions for further study
5.6 Conclusion
References
Appendix I
Appendix II
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
Library is a repository of stored knowledge. It is the life-line of every academic institution through out the world.
Everyday new technological advances affect the way information is handled in libraries and information centers. The effectiveness of Implementation of virtual library project are felt by libraries in every aspect. Computing technology, communication technology and mass storage technology are some of the area of continuous development that reshape the way that libraries access, retrieve, store, manipulate and disseminate information to users. Library collection have almost always contained a variety of materials. Contemporary libraries maintain collections that include not only printed materials such as manuscripts, books, newspapers and magazines, but also art productions, films, sound and video recordings, maps, photographs, microfiches, CD-Roms, Computer software, Online databases, and other media.
In addition to maintaining collection within library buildings, modern libraries often feature telecommunications links that provide users with access to information at remote sites. In essence, the library can be referred to as the “life wire” or “Heart” of tertiary institutions as it supports teaching, research and learning. In spite of this vital role most libraries in colleges lag behind their counterparts in developed countries due to absolute materials, dilapidated infrastructure and staff that lack adequate modern library management skills.
The quality of the library and its staff directly affect the quality of the products of the institutions.
The inability of the stakeholders to provide adequate fund to stock libraries with relevant book and materials particularly in academic institutions has a great negative implication for learning, teaching and research. The situation now forces libraries to have a re-think on the way out of the woods. The advent of ICTs and internal, came to the rescue of libraries. Libraries thus began to explore the possibility of deploying the benefits accruing from ICT as a way of reducing the cost of stocking libraries and networking which deals with resources sharing among libraries.
The era of virtual library has emerged in addition to the above. Many authors refer to the virtual libraries as the digital libraries, and electronic libraries (e-libraries). Other regard them as online libraries, or information super highway or universal or libraries without wants.
Here access to a wide range of information resources is possible through computer and telecommunication technologies. Also the users enjoy the euplarea of being able to access collections in distant libraries multmedially, and yet have not physically moved. This required a set of databases in what is referred as virtual cities, buildings and offices. In higher institutions, college of education inclusive virtual classrooms, laboratories and instrumentations all requiring funds must be put in place for the virtual library projects to have real impact on technology, learning and research.
1.2 Statement of the Problems
The issue now is that the researchers wish to look at the implementations of virtual library projects in the colleges of education in Nigeria through the public colleges of education in south east zone since the project is very new in the institutions of higher learning and knowing very well that ordinarily academic libraries in the country are faced with teething problems such as capital to buy hardwares, softwares, expansion training, acquisition of books, journals etc, standing generators, lack of search skills, automation and epileptic power supply.
Hence this study will examine the factors that affect the effective implementations of virtual library projects in public colleges of education in south eastern zone of Nigeria.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The specific objectives of the study are to;
1. To determine the factors militating against the effective implementation of virtual library projects
2. To determines the involvements of the government in implementing virtual library project in the zone.
3. To determine the challenges associated with the implementations of virtual library project in south East College of Education
4. To determine the efficiency and effectiveness of implementation of virtual library
5. To determine how skillful and knowledgeable the staff are in the use of ICT resources.
6. To determine the usefulness of ICT resources in academic libraries.
1.4 Research Questions
1. What are the real factors militating against the effective implementation of virtual library project in South East colleges of education.
2. What are the remedies to remove those factors militating against the effective implementation of virtual library project.
3. In what extent has the government work to remove those factors militating against the effective implementation of virtual library project.
4. How efficient and effective is the use of virtual library project in South East colleges of Education.
5. Do the staff of the academic libraries have the required knowledge and skill in using ICT resources.
1.5 Purpose of the Study
The purpose of the study is to ascertain the impact of implementation of virtual library project. The research work highlights the factors militating against the affective implementation of virtual library project in South East Colleges of Education.
1.6 Significance of the Study
i. This study is expected to provide a basic for comprehensive information on factors militating against the affective implementation of virtual library project in south East Colleges of
Education.
ii. The study will established the existing gaps in the adoption of implementation of virtual library project in the operations of academic in achieving their statutory functions.
iii. The output of this study will serve as a blue-print for libraries, information managers/information scientists, researchers, lecturers, students, and teachers to chart the right course of action for the use of information and communication technology in furthering education through policy formulation and implementation.
1.7 Scope/Delimitation of the Study
The scope/delimitation of this study covers about eight (8) libraries of South East public colleges of education. This enables the researchers within the jurisdiction to find real facts about the factors militating against the effective implementation of virtual library projects in south East Colleges of Education.
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Factors Militating Against The Implementations Of Virtual Library Project In Public Colleges Of Education:
Implementing a virtual library project in public colleges of education can be a complex endeavor, and there are several factors that can militate against its successful implementation. These factors can vary depending on the specific context and circumstances of each institution, but here are some common challenges:
Limited Technological Infrastructure: Many public colleges of education may lack the necessary technological infrastructure to support a virtual library effectively. Insufficient internet connectivity, outdated hardware, and inadequate software can hinder the implementation of a virtual library.
Financial Constraints: Budget constraints can be a significant barrier to implementing a virtual library. Setting up and maintaining a virtual library requires a significant investment in technology, digital resources, and staff training, which may not always be feasible for cash-strapped institutions.
Resistance to Change: Resistance to change among faculty, staff, and students can hinder the adoption of virtual library services. Some individuals may be reluctant to embrace new technologies or may prefer traditional library resources.
Lack of Digital Skills: Faculty and students may lack the digital literacy skills necessary to effectively use virtual library resources. Without proper training and support, they may struggle to navigate and utilize digital collections.
Content Licensing and Copyright Issues: Acquiring and managing digital content can be complicated due to licensing agreements and copyright issues. Ensuring compliance with copyright laws and securing licenses for e-books and other digital resources can be challenging.
Data Security and Privacy Concerns: Maintaining the security and privacy of digital resources and user data is critical. Security breaches or privacy violations can erode trust and impede the implementation of a virtual library.
Accessibility Issues: Ensuring that virtual library resources are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, can be challenging. Compliance with accessibility standards is essential but can be resource-intensive.
Staffing and Training: Adequate staffing with the necessary skills to manage and support a virtual library is crucial. Insufficient staffing levels or staff members without appropriate training can hinder the effective operation of the virtual library.
User Engagement: Encouraging faculty and students to actively use the virtual library can be challenging. Without proper marketing and outreach efforts, users may not be aware of the available resources or how to access them.
Sustainability: The long-term sustainability of a virtual library project can be a concern. Funding and support must be available not only for the initial implementation but also for ongoing maintenance and updates.
Infrastructure Challenges: In some regions, unreliable electricity supply or inadequate backup power sources can disrupt access to virtual libraries, causing frustration among users.
Policy and Governance Issues: Establishing clear policies and governance structures for the virtual library project can be a complex process. Decisions about resource acquisition, access policies, and user rights must be well-defined.
Addressing these challenges often requires a coordinated effort involving administrators, faculty, librarians, and IT staff. Institutions should carefully assess their specific needs and capabilities and develop a comprehensive plan for implementing and sustaining a virtual library project to mitigate these factors and ensure its success.