ASSESSMENT OF LIBRARY APPLICATION SOFTWARE PACKAGES FOR LIBRARY OPERATIONS IN COLLEGES OF EDUCATION IN NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA
Abstract
This study assessed Library Application Software Packages (LASP) for library operations in Colleges of Education in North Central Nigeria. It aimed to evaluate how LASP handle daily operations and identify challenges faced by librarians. The study Adopt a quantitative method and a correlational survey design, the study surveyed 216 out of 6,500 library staff using proportionate and random sampling techniques. Data analysis revealed that library application software packages are used for cataloguing and classification, circulation management, reserving materials, inventory management, overdue fines management, interlibrary loan management, report generation, integration with online resources, and RFID/barcode-based tracking. Challenges identified include high acquisition and maintenance costs, limited technical skills among staff, frequent software updates, data migration issues, lack of customization options, insufficient technical support, user resistance to new technology, data security concerns, and integration difficulties with other digital resources. The study concludes that despite these challenges, LASP significantly enhance library management in areas like cataloguing, circulation, reserving materials, managing overdue fines, interlibrary loans, report generation, and tracking items with RFID/barcode systems.
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