The Influence of Social Media on User Services in Academic Libraries. A Case study

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to find out the influence of social media on user services in Federal University of Technology, Minna. The paper discussed social cyber space where users access, communicate and contribute to the existing knowledge. It also discussed electronic publishing and social networking. It looked at innovative and effective ways of connecting FUT library users with other University library facilities. The use of Facebook for discussing academic problems was also considered. Other issues on social media that were discussed, include, my space, Mambo, LinkedIn, Twitter, flicker, YouTube, teacher tube,and so on. The paper also discovered some challenges facing social networking. Thus: lack of awareness, bandwidth problem, technophobia, lack of maintenance culture, unreliable power supply, inadequate training of staff, government intervention and copyright problem. Based on the above findings, the following recommendations were put in place; payment of more attention of procurement of digital resources more participation in social networking sites and setting up academic Libraries' website.