The Role of Current Awareness Services in Enhancing Quality Library Service Delivery Using CASUp Graphics in FUT Minna Library

Abstract

This study is focused on the role of current awareness services in enhancing quality library service delivery in the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida Library FEDERAL University of Technology Minna. Libraries have long been recognised as an important storehouse of information, knowledge and services. With the increase in the number of resources available in academic libraries, keeping library users informed of new acquisitions has become a necessity to improve leaning, teaching and research. Current Awareness Services (CAS) are designed to help users stay informed about recent developments, issues, and activities relating to their field of study. The Federal University of Technology Minna Library has implemented CAS, but it is not clear how effective it is in meeting the needs and expectations of library users. This study aimed to investigate the availability and use of CAS in the Federal University of Technology Minna Library, as well as the perceived expectations of library users from CAS. The study further developed Current Awareness Service-Upgrade (CAS-UP) using a graphical design template to revitalize the existing CAS in the library. A survey research design was adopted using copies of questionnaire designed with Google Forms to randomly collect data from 234 undergraduate and postgraduate students of FUT Minna. The findings from this research showed that the level of awareness of CAS was low while the expectations from students as regards CAS was high. CAS-UP was developed as a way of upgrading the existing current awareness services using a graphical design template. The study recommended that regular training should be encouraged for library staff to ensure effective current awareness service delivery and CAS-UP should be promoted through various channels such as social media, newsletters, emails and posters.