INFLUENCE OF PRESERVATION ON THE USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the influence of preservation on the use of information resources in academic libraries in Niger State, Nigeria. Information resources in academic libraries in Niger State were deteriorated due to so many factors. Questionnaire and checklist were used to collect data from one hundred and ninety-four (194) professional and para-professional staff of the six academic libraries in Niger State. The data collected were analysed using mean scores and standard deviation. Audio-visual materials were partially available in academic libraries. Disasters, human, and biological factors were responsible for deterioration of information resources and Photocopying, re-binding and fumigation techniques were adopted for preservation of information resources and the challenges faced by academic libraries included lack of plans for managing records and lack of preservation policy and strategy. Based on the findings, the study concluded that professional and para-professional staff of academic libraries in Niger State have low skills on preservation of information resources and level of preservation strategies awareness is also very low generally. This study recommended that academic libraries should be adequately funded by government and the preservation policy and strategy on information resources in the academic libraries should be in place and be reviewed from time to time.