TITLE PAGE
ACADEMIC LIBRARY SERVICES AS AN EFFECTIVE INSTRUMENT FOR
ACHIEVING ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE: CASE STUDY OF LIBRARY AND
INFORMATION SCIENCE.
BY
EGBULE GODSPOWER
LIS/ND/20/00180
BEING A RESEARCH PROJECT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF
LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE, SCHOOL OF INFORMATION AND
COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY, DELTA STATE POLYTECHNIC,
OGWASHI-UKU.
IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF
NATIONAL DIPLOMA (ND) IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE.
OCTOBER, 2022.
i
DECLARATION
I, EGBULE GODSPOWER hereby declare that this research project ACADEMIC
LIBRARY SERVICES AS AN EFFECTIVE INSTRUMENT FOR ACHIEVING
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE: CASE STUDY OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION
SCIENCE was carried out by me and that I will be liable for any piece of information
given in the work.
_________________________
EGBULE GODSPOWER
_____________________
DATE
ii
CERTIFICATION
This is to certify that this study was carried out by EGBULE GODSPOWER of the
Department of Library and Information Science, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku as
meeting the requirement for the award of National Diploma (ND) in Library and
Information Science.
_____________________________
MRS. GRACE ANYAOBI
(Project Supervisor)
_________________
DATE
__________________________________________
MR. CHUKWUDI ALPHONSUS ANIOGBOLU
(HOD, Library and Information Science)
_________________
DATE
___________________________________
DR. EMMANUEL A. AKPOVETA
(Dean, School of ICT)
_________________
DATE
iii
DEDICATION
This project is dedicated to God Almighty for his infinite mercy, wisdom, grace,
protection and strength given to me throughout my studies in Delta State Polytechnic,
Ogwashi-uku.
iv
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
All my thanks to the pillar and sustainer of my life Almighty God, throughout my stay and
years of study in Delta State Polytechnic.
This research work would have been impossible without the priceless support and
encouragement from my spectacular project supervisor Mrs. Anyobi Grace, Ma, thank you
for your skillful guidance and thoughtful correction in these studies and bringing it to
success. May the good Lord reward your abundantly.
My profound gratitude goes my super parents Mr. and Mrs. Egbule and my wonderful
siblings who have been a pillar of support throughout my days at school.
Lastly, this rate of thanks would not be complete without the mention of our Mr.
Chukwudi Alphonsus Aniogbolu for his moral advice and to all the lecturers, and course
mates in Library and Informational Science Department without you it would have been a
disaster.
I thank you all.
v
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE ................................................................................................................ i
DECLARATION .......................................................................................................... ii
CERTIFICATION ...................................................................................................... iii
DEDICATION ............................................................................................................. iv
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ......................................................................................... v
TABLE OF CONTENTS............................................................................................ vi
ABSTRACT ............................................................................................................... viii
1.1 BACKGROUND OF STUDY .............................................................................. 1
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM .................................................................... 5
1.3 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY ............................................................................ 5
1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS ................................................................................... 6
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY ...................................................................... 6
1.6 SCOPE OF THE STUDY ..................................................................................... 7
1.7 DEMILITATION OF THE STUDY ..................................................................... 7
1.8 DEFINITION OF TERMS .................................................................................... 7
CHAPTER TWO ......................................................................................................... 8
2.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................ 8
2.1 CONCEPT OF ACADEMIC LIBRARY ............................................................. 8
2.2 LIBRARY SERVICES ON LIBRARY USERS ................................................ 12
2.3 INFLUENCE OF READING CULTURE ON PERFORMANCE ..................... 13
2.4 LIBRARY COLLECTION ON PERFORMANCE ............................................ 15
2.5 LIBRARY SERVICES ....................................................................................... 16
2.6 SUMMARY OF REVIEWED LITERATURE .................................................. 18
CHAPTER THREE ................................................................................................... 20
3.0 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................. 20
3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN ........................................................................................ 20
vi
3.2 POPULATION OF THE STUDY ...................................................................... 20
3.3 SAMPLE AND SAMPLING TECHNIQUES .................................................... 20
3.4 INSTRUMENT OF DATA COLLECTION ....................................................... 21
3.5 VALIDATION OF INSTRUMENT ................................................................... 21
3.6 RELIABLITY OF INSTRUMENT .................................................................... 21
3.7 METHOD OF DATA COLLECTION ............................................................... 22
3.8 METHOD OF DATA ANALYSIS ..................................................................... 22
CHAPTER FOUR ...................................................................................................... 23
4.1 Data Analysis and Presentation........................................................................... 23
4.2 DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS ........................................................................... 30
CHAPTER FIVE ........................................................................................................ 31
5.1 SUMMARY ........................................................................................................ 31
5.2 CONCLUSION ................................................................................................... 31
5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS .................................................................................... 32
REFERENCE ............................................................................................................. 33
APPENDIX ................................................................................................................. 35
vii
ABSTRACT
This study examined how Academic library services can be an effective instrument for
achieving academic excellence, using the department of Library and information science
students of Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-uku as case study. Having established the
research objectives, the study went further to engage different literatures and was studied
keenly as regards the scope of the research. The study adopted the survey research method
using the purposive sampling technique to get the sample used for the study, thus using the
questionnaire as the research instrument to gather data. Data collected form the 72
respondents were analyzed and it was found out that, The Academic library promotes
reading habits and makes valuable contribution to the educational programs of the
institution; Independent reading, learning and formation of good reading habits can only
be effective when the reading skills and library skills had been taught and acquired; The
functions, services and activities of the Academic libraries exerts subtitle influence on the
students’ academic amongst others. The study therefore recommended that, the institution
management board should as a matter of urgency deploy professional librarians and
library assistants to our tertiary institutions in order to produce certified graduates of
NCE, HND and BSc in library science and also the librarians are to embark on the job
training to improve their competence and keep them abreast with the modern trends in
librarianship.
viii
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1
BACKGROUND OF STUDY
The library is an integral part of any academic institution where it is situated and no such
institution can achieve its well throughout objectives without the library. It is not an adjunct
to the parent institution, but an indispensable part. It is necessary to have library in our post
primary schools because it is the central organ of an academic institution which determines
the excellence of the institution in teaching and learning.
Libraries are found in elementary post primary and higher schools and house the
materials and services that students and lecturers requires to carry out their academic
activities. Their holdings consist of printed an audio-visual material that support and extent
the curricula and that attempt to make reading attractive to students.
According to encyclopedia Americana, they offer reference and inter-library loans in
terms of size, 54.6% of libraries have fewer than 2000 books, while 3% have more than
10000% books. In the early 1990s there were approximately 3500 libraries in Mexico,
representing a 24% increase in just two years. Libraries have also extended their missions and
the level of their services in recent years.
Furthermore, from the above one can see that the library has a remarkable role in
academic excellent of students because the process of teaching and learning cannot be
effectively done without incorporating the library in education system. It is therefore an
instrument of education excellence. In this regard Ishola (2002) says “That whose function is
to broaden the education of students by introducing them to spheres of knowledge outside the
narrow confines of their school curriculum” The Academic library can serve as follows:-
1
i.
Resource Centre: Offers a wide variety of materials that information is not only
stored in print form but also in non-print.
ii.
Teaching Agency: Teacher students various skills which when acquired enhances
their academic performance and discourage leaving by rote.
iii.
Services Agency: Offer various services users to aid them make maximum utilization
of the library resources.
iv.
Recreation Agency: Guides students in their research work involving using the
library by providing minor reference assistance to them.
v.
Educational Agency: This is the overall development of an individual, growth,
progressive reconstruction of experience and a life long process. The educational roles
of the library are:a)
Inculcation of permanent literacy
b)
Promotion of early child education
c)
Enhancement of Education
d)
Development of reading habits.
The Academic libraries thus has challenged the functions of parents, lecturers, and the
various institutions that were formerly the exclusion, sources of knowledge and information.
The characteristic of the library:
1.
User: They are made up of the students, students and lecturers. Some are more
intelligent than others or some are eager to read while others are backward. The
libraries should give more attention to the less intelligent once in order for them to
meet up.
2.
Contents: It contains materials that are book and non-book materials also contains
materials based on the syllables and subjects taught at school chosen on basis of its
individual merit considering the special needs and problem of the institution and the
2
medium that most effectively conveys the desired content so that its objective will be
met.
3.
Location: It is part of the school community. They are to achieve the objectives of the
school that set it up the library as a complement.
4.
Functions: It is an integrating factor in the work of the school. The work of the
library is directed towards the definite education aims of the school.
The relationship between libraries and reading habits and that between libraries and
academic excellence has been a subject of theoretical interest and practical importance
amongst librarians. However, this relationship has been established through effective reading
and general success in academic pursuit. In the primary schools, the library laid the
foundation for reading habits by importing reading skills at the formation stage of the
student’s education. In the schools they form the foundation for independent learning at
present school and at successive stages of the student’s life by establishing firmly the reading
habits acquired in the primary school. Also, the library communicates information from
several information carries, for better understanding and broadcasting of knowledge and there
produce profound effects on the various categories of the student’s populace who acquire the
skill of utilizing and assimilating information from the library, thus become more successful
than others by virtue of information and knowledge they possess via the library collections.
It was in view of this that Morgan (2003) asserts that in the hands of a cultured
teacher the library may serve as a link to bind together the home and school, and to arouse the
interest of parents in what and how their children are reading, by referring them to the library.
Lecturers can suggest to students’ valuable books suitable for their age, attainment,
tastes and necessities. Seldom does a day pass when the vigilant teacher has not an
opportunity, either in a class or in private conversation, to drop into the prepared soil of
students mind a hint of some valuable books to read in the library.
3
In conclusion “there is no better intellectual and moral influence than that which
comes from reading a good book aloud in the family circle” Morgan (2003) concludes that:Learning with tear is now a thing of the past like wise learning from single textbook.
As every good and resourceful teacher knows one of the crimes or worst “sins” a teacher can
commit against his students is to feed them with wrong and out-dated information, also for
the purpose of education to be fully achieved, students and lecturers need to consult several
sources for better understanding and clarity. Also, nothing could be as dangerous as
ignorance and an ill-informed student as they fall prey to rumours and false propaganda. The
library selects, acquires and store in a classified arrangement on shelves the best and up-todate sources of information that keeps staff and students abreast of new developments in
knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, encourage practical work and develop
the powers of analytical appraisal and of critical thinking.
Learning can be one of the most exciting experiences in life, while reading is
identified as the single most important determinant of a child’s success at school and in
modern society as well. Learning also in modern life depends largely upon one’s ability to
interpret the printed messages accurately and fully, while reading is an educational task,
essential for one’s excellence in all academic pursuits. He who has other reasons for learning
and reading besides interest in the subject has everything going for him, his interests
broadens and cheap source of information during childhood education.
Thus, ideas absorbed from reading and learning through then remains with the
students for the rest of their lives and produces profound effects and influences on their
academics. Also, the library in no small measure plays a great part on the attitudes,
behaviours, aspiration academic pursuits embarked upon by students and in determining the
kind of people they can be good readers who have mastered the tasks of reading agree that
early exposure to a wide range of printed materials is a highly relevant factor in reading.
4
It behaves on students’ numerous information sources to exploit so as to enhance their
academic performance and to excel. This way, it lays foundation for a brighter future.
Knowledge acquired from the information embedded, in the library and resources is like a
fortune rightly acquired. For it is “the heart of the institution and the apex on which the
intellectual life of the school and student rest”. It is against the background that the researcher
seeks to investigate the extent of academic library service as an effective instrument for
achieving academic excellence.
1.2
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
This study is to investigate the extent to which academic library services contribute to
academic excellence. Also, libraries have effect on the students and lecturers in their
indispensable contributions to the teaching and learning programs of the schools. IS yet to be
fully understood. As a result of this problem, what this research study tries to portray is the
mechanism by which the library come about it.
1.3
OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY
The library is a central focus because in every academic institution. The learners and
educators achieve this objective through the library which serves as the vehicle of
communication or transmission of scholarly knowledge for educational excellence. Libraries
are very indispensable for effective teaching and learning process. Furthermore, the
objectives are therefore stated.
1.
To ascertain the effect library services and program on its users executive.
2.
To find out the influence of reading culture and library skills acquisition on students’
performance.
3.
To determine the extent to which library collections influences knowledge.
5
4.
To determine the services of the library.
1.4
RESEARCH QUESTIONS

What extent has Library services affected its users?

Does reading culture and skills acquired influence on the performance of the students?

To what extent do the collections influence knowledge on the users?

What are the services provided by the library?
1.5
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
This study is significant because it will benefit the following: -

Libraries management should be able to perceive and teach the students on how to use
the library as data banks of information and knowledge for self directed learning and
research.

Lecturers will know that in order for a student to cope academically and other wise
he/she has to become self reliant in obtaining and utilizing information.

The entire (Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-uku) management would also increase
the habit of using the library in the life of the students.

The result of the study will hopefully be beneficial to the undergraduate students,
research and develop skills that will enable them exploit available resources in library
information science.

The state government will also recognize the importance of libraries in the education
from this research.
6
1.6
SCOPE OF THE STUDY
The scope of this study is limited to Library and Information Science Delta State
Polytechnic, Ogwashi-uku Students of 2021/2022 Academic Session.
1.7
DEMILITATION OF THE STUDY
This study does not have a wider national coverage, in other words, it is limited by its
scope/coverage to undergraduates of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-uku. This is because
of it is virtually impossible to cover all undergraduate students in Nigerian due to shortage of
funds.
1.8
DEFINITION OF TERMS

Library: according to the new Lexicon Webster Dictionary of the English language.
Library is defined as a room or building housing a collection of books usually
arranged according to same plan. Such collection of book on related topics issued by a
publisher.

Excellence: The quality of being outstanding or extremely good. Exhibiting an
intrinsic knowledge of the difference between right and wrong, shows the courage to
act upon that knowledge, and embodies the following ethical characteristics: Respect
for self, others, and the environment. Empathy. Integrity.

Education: Is a process of teaching training and learning especially in schools to
improve knowledge and develop skills.

Library Services: Library Service means a service that provides reading materials for
convenient use; circulation of reading materials; service to help provide users with
library materials, educational and recreational audiovisual materials; or a combination
of these services.
7
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0
INTRODUCTION
This chapter focuses on the following subtopics:
2.1
Conceptual Framework i.e., Concept of Academic Library
2.2
Library Services on Library Users
2.3
Influence of Reading Culture on Academic Performance.
2.4
Library Collection and Performance
2.5
Library Services
2.6
Summary of the Reviewed Literature
2.1
CONCEPT OF ACADEMIC LIBRARY
The impacts of academic libraries are known to be wide, varied and complex
depending on “what is affected”, “what is changing”, “what is read”, how the process takes
place” and when the impact is evidenced”. It is important to note that the effects of that
impact are a product of interaction depending on the students view of the library and purpose
library usage. Writing on types of library users in and their perception of the library, Dike
[2007] notes that, for the non-users, either the library or it resources has become it’s friend
and instructor. For an average user, it is a sort of friend who informs him of events; educates,
advices and offers help while not being boring or noisy. For the captive users, it is a
wonderful counselor, a source of knowledge, a framework for academic feat and a guide into
areas of life not yet known to him.
On the whole, the academic library promotes education process and it is evidenced
that academic libraries also has notable influences and effects on the education, performance
8
and academic excellence of students in post primary institutions as well be reviewed in this
chapter, for it purposes on citations where researchers, authors and commentators work are
cited in addition to that of other various intellects also the researchers contributed her own
views.
Importance of Academic Library
To educate citizens, students and teachers of today which is very necessary in our
post-primary institutions, it is in realization of the importance of academic libraries in the
educational process that Chioma [2001] observed that: the academic library therefore is not
just a conduit pipe in relation to education of a child but invariably a very active factor in the
education process.
The two great divisions of the academic library are specialization and the actual
imparting of knowledge. However, in each, resourcefulness is a prime factor. In the imparting
of knowledge, the academic library holds first place. The unforeseen and the unexpected will
always arise and give the resourceful library the golden opportunities of being the “world of
knowledge”. In recent years, education has learned a great deal about making school
interesting. In most classrooms sincere effort is made to get students involved and create
enough interest so that motivation is not a problem. We now know that these efforts have
been only partially successful. In this regard to Allan (2003) had observed that:
The scope of knowledge has become too expensive, too vast to be covered
extensively with the boundaries of classroom instruction, superior though
may be. Through the academic library, these boundaries can be extended
immeasurably in all areas of knowledge to meet and stimulate the many
interest, appreciation and curiosities of youth.
The human and materials resources needed by the school to establish its inherent
educational programs cannot be put in place without the academic library. The school reflects
and supports the philosophy of the school, it shares and implement the school aims and
objectives. It is totally involved in the teaching and learning process and widens the horizon
9
of the student’s education. It is the place in the school where almost every subject and every
interest meet. That is, it brings together in one place books in all subjects and learners and
educators interested in them thus it is a symbol of unity.
Commenting further on the importance of the academic library, Odiase (2005)
observes that the library provides background materials which can be used to enrich the
teaching and learning of all subjects. A well-organized academic library is the most powerful
instrument of education.
The academic library is important in broadening the students education and in
motivating and encouraging students to read. Also let librarians be trained and users
(students) be educated on how to use the library for the influence to be felt. The philosophy
of education, the quality of teachers, attitude of the students to education, the teaching and
learning resources available reading and extraordinary diverse array of knowledge are the
product of the academic libraries.
As an agency through which the institution of education exerts its influence on
students academics, the changes which have take n place as a result of its importance or
relevance in the education process these years are nothing less than revolutionary. Expressing
their views on the information of academic library and books in life and education process of
a child, the International Federation of Library Associations Committee (IFLAC) on library
work with children highlighted it thus:
Library and books are a stimulus to his intelligence, are incentive to
independent thinking, a source of information and enjoyment. They are
indispensable tools in education and a child who has learnt to use and
enjoy them is better able to continue his studies after leaving school.
Roles and Functions of The Academic Library
Nike (2001) says “academic library is a veritable investment for actualizing the much
desired educational reforms”. The above statement underscores the invaluable contributions
10
of the academic library in the teaching and learning programs of the school. The role of
academic libraries in education are inexhaustible though Nickel (2002) attempt to summarize
them. In his view, the academic library can serve as: A resource center, a learning laboratory,
a teaching agency, a service agency, a guidance agency, and a center for recreational reading,
viewing and listening. It functions as a vital instrument as well as a basic requirement for
quality education by enriching the school curriculum.
The academic library satisfies the variety of personal interest developed by the
students outside the scope of the school curriculum. Another important role of the academic
library is in relation to personal development and self improvement. Also the academic
library is the natural center for all kinds of educational effort, and lessons held in its meeting
room are a valuable means of extending education with books in the library to students.
The primary objective of the academic library is to implement, complete and
supplement the total educational programs of the school. Others includes development of
reading skills, literary tastes, discrimination in choice of materials, instructions in the use of
library and books, and the development of the school, intellectual and spiritual values of the
students and appreciation of their cultural heritage.
Obi (2002) highlights some of the contributions of the academic library as follows:
1.
Provides a framework for achievement in present
2.
Schooling and increase students chances of study
3.
Success in other professional pursuit
4.
Provides student with vocational information leading to choice of suitable career.
5.
Help in discovering and developing the special gifts and talents of students.
6.
Train students to study independently by providing a wide range of material for class
projects, individual reports, and class assignments.
11
2.2
LIBRARY SERVICES ON LIBRARY USERS
For most clienteles of a particular library, the overall content of the library does not
serve the purpose of meeting the user without such intervening forces of its services which it
renders to its clienteles. It becomes necessary to ask “What is the academic library trying to
do?” “Who is the academic library trying to help?” “What service be rendered effectively?”
and “How can these materials be organized, stored and made available?”
However, it is important to note that the academic library is a service-oriented
institution established to serve the staff and students. The aim of offering these services is to
help the school achieve its educational objectives. The library’s effectiveness will depend
upon the library services as a whole. It is concerned with the interaction of the user with
library as only this can make the library exercise its education role and maintain its
educational social and recreational values.
In evaluating the overall effect of the academic libraries on students academics, it is
important to pose these question: How do such services exert influence on students
academics? What academics benefits are there in such services?
The teacher/librarian has the challenging responsibility of getting the students
acquainted with the use of the library so that they form reading habit and continues to read
and consult books and libraries after leaving school.
Allan, (2003) observes that “giving the children instruction on the use of books and
libraries is a basic educational discipline”.
Mc Cleory (2006) maintains that librarians should educate their user on the use of
materials in the library by teaching, implementing relevant programs of instruction for groups
or individuals and or class. Users should be educated on the development of social
collections, services for particular categories of users and cataloging and classification.
12
Investigations have revealed that one of the problems inhibiting academic excellence
is ignorance or lack of knowledge in the use of the library. Thus Okpala (2002) contested
that: Our contention is that the capability of knowing what, where and how to find
information on a student subject needs to be taught, and the total lack of these teaching of this
leaves a gap in student knowledge and makes academic pursuit more difficult.
Tactz (2006) rightly observes most library users are unable without help to find the
information they need even though more information than ever is actually in the library. In
order to cope with the ever increasing volume of knowledge, students need to understand the
patterns of communication and how to organize their methods of information retrieval
efficiency.
Library orientation is a foundational element of users education. Other relevant topics
treated in library period of instruction (user education) include: use of the card catalogue,
organization of materials, reference books, borrowing procedures, library regulation, how to
gather information and proper care and handling of books. In addition the academic library
also performs exhibition and display services such as:- Display of books relating to the
curriculum or the special class project are very useful in bringing the students to read books
other than textbooks. They reveal its resources and help make the students aware of books on
topics they may not have had the opportunity to explore.
2.3
INFLUENCE OF READING CULTURE ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
Access to information is crucial to individual advancement as well as corporate,
educational development. Information is indispensable, and it bridges the gap between
knowledge and illiteracy (Yusuf, 2007). Kolawole (2005) sees reading as the fulcrum or
cornerstone of literacy, and that without it, there can be no literacy.
13
Reading offers a productive approach to human development as it is the foundation
upon which other academic skills are built. Tella and Akande (2007) assert that the ability to
read is at the heart of self-education and lifelong learning and that it is an art capable of
transforming life and society. Yani (2003) posits that reading habits of Nigerians are a matter
of concern in our educational and national development, stating further that in a developing
country like Nigeria, the concept of reading habits should not be relegated to the background.
Reading is the bedrock of any formal form of education. It is a cornerstone of any
academic endeavour or success. Its proficiency is the royal road to knowledge and success in
all academic subjects. Kolawole (2005) also noted that reading is fundamental to learning,
and so a child’s ability to read is the centre of the education process. The complexity of
reading is mainly geared at recognising and understanding written and printed words
(Mabekoje, 2005). It is essential in all phases of life because of the practical purposes it
serves. Therefore, if the child must develop well as a social being, he needs to cultivate
desirable reading attitudes and interests. To ascertain if there is a relationship between
reading interests and reading achievement, scholars, and teachers have all along with
advanced possible causes of low or under-achievement of students in school subjects. Subject
teachers have concentrated on diagnosing textbooks used, teachers’ method and personality,
difficult concepts, curriculum contents, among others, as influencing students’ performance.
However, educational researchers have identified poor motivation, study habit,
attitude, planning (pre- and post- by teachers and students), adjustment, and lack of selfconcept, among others as possible causes of poor academic achievement (Akinboye, 1974;
Emeke, 1984; Ezewu 1987; Oheari, 1994; Akinsolu, 2010). A study by Aduwa (2004), on
determinants of students’ academic success, reported that a student’s home environment,
their cognitive abilities, self-esteem, self-concept, study habits, and motivation affect their
academic success. Contrary to this, Iyamu (2005) contended that the provision of all these
14
factors might not have a significant impact on successful learning if the learners are not
exposed to competent principals, teachers, and other school teams.
2.4
LIBRARY COLLECTION ON PERFORMANCE
Organizations of all kinds are regularly called on to provide evidence of their
effectiveness by measuring performance. Libraries and other information agencies are no
exception. The motivations for performance measurement in libraries may have evolved over
time (particularly as new services are offered, and newer—e.g., electronic— resources are
made available), but increasingly libraries must demonstrate their worth for things that
sometimes elude simple quantification. Identifying and properly utilizing the tools and
essential frameworks and principles needed for collecting, analyzing, and presenting such
information can be difficult and elusive. Moreover, the risks of losing resources or having
decisions made by others outside the library mean professionals must develop the
foundational skills of determining which of a variety factors should be measured and how
The academic library is no longer as a mere store house of book rather as a preserver
and collector of recorded information and knowledge both past and present and future in
addition to a transmitter of scholarly information in whatever format they are presented. The
stock of a academic library is one of the ways its objectives are to be met.
An academic library should tock a wide range of books covering many subjects,
different reading levels and for extensive reference and research. This is because according to
Tyler (2008) Assorted range of books give an opportunity towards the development of
interest and habits in reading a wide variety of books that are satisfying and significant to the
reader. They provide greater extension to the experience of young people by widely
extending the horizon of the reader through various experience. Each material while
15
containing or giving a great deal of information, is carefully and systematically arranged that
they demonstrate inter-relationship of subjects.
Performance measurement in libraries may be required or motivated by bodies outside
the organization (for instance, as part of accreditation by the Joint Commission on
Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations), as part of self-examination of the effectiveness of
current services, or perhaps as justification for an increase in resources. As noted, there is no
dearth of literature that the librarian can turn to regarding measuring the performance of a
range of services, from outreach services to electronic resources and related services.
However, the breadth of issues that Brophy presents in his book, particularly given the way
he has chosen to organize these, would serve as an excellent foundation to guide these
activities.
2.5
LIBRARY SERVICES
To meet information needs of the users, libraries provide a range of services, which
are broadly known as Reference and Information Services. Reference services are concerned
with direct personal assistance to the user seeking information. It covers direct services such
as assistance to the user in the use of the library and its tools, assistance in searching and
locating documents, ready reference and long range reference service, literature search and
compilation of bibliography, helping in research etc. and indirect services such as selection,
organization and maintenance of library material for reference service, and other tasks of
reference section such as keeping a record of reference queries, preparation of publicity
material, evaluation of reference section etc.
16
Haycock (1995) revealed that in schools with good library services students
performed significantly better in reading comprehension and in their ability to express
effectively ideas in relation to their readings.
More general views on the need of having a library service in every school were those
raised by Francis at el (2010) who said, Academic library was an integral part of educational
system that could not be ignored without jeopardizing the quality of education in schools.
The Academic library was an important part of elementary, middle and high school programs
without which students would not thrive academically and invariably find it most difficult to
conduct academic research before they reached college level.
Adefarati (2002) highlighted the aims of Academic library among them being a
source of subject information centre and support the school curriculum. Jato (2014) saying
that Academic library was very important in shaping students habit as regard reading for
leisure, to pass examinations and to obtain information on different aspects of life.
Information services are provided in anticipation of various needs of the users of
libraries. Current awareness services, indexing and abstracting service, etc. fall under
information services. At times, these services are provided on demands from the users.
In literature the terms reference service and information service are used
synonymously. Some experts refer them as two different kinds of services. The differences
are enumerated in the Table below: S/N
REFERENCE SERVICE
INFORMATION SERVICE
1.
Traditional Service
Non-Traditional Service
2.
Emphasis is on providing document
Emphasis is on providing information
3.
User is given the material or directed to Attempt is made to provide exact
4.
locate the material
information
Aim is to instruct the user
Less concerned with instructing user
17
5.
Service provided on demand
Service provided in anticipation of
need
6.
Passive service: Library staff waits for Active service: Library staff provide
the user to approach user well - service in anticipation to keep them
informed
and make a demand
Reference and information services may also be broadly grouped into responsive information
services and anticipatory information services. Responsive information services, also known
as passive information services, are provided in response to the requests from the library
users. Anticipatory information services, also known as active information services are
provided in anticipation of the needs of the library users.
2.6
SUMMARY OF REVIEWED LITERATURE
The full educational impact of the academic library on the academic behavioral
pattern of students is yet to be fully understood. Obviously, communication is very vital in
human existence. In the increasingly independent modern world of today, the ability to read
and communicate forms one of the basic skills for an individual’s survival in the society.
Libraries and teachers agreed that a meaningful knowledge must be in-depth while theorist
and practitioners alike that effective communication must be persuasive.
Communication and reading involve some sort of subsequent resource like book and
non-book resource with these academic libraries represent a major force for academic
excellence.
Harold Demsetz (2006) sees communication thus communication seeks to alter the
state of knowledge or the feelings of others so that it implicitly attempts to convince and
persuade others, that this information is not worth having. Most studies on academic library
18
and academic excellence have tended to focus on reading habits/skills, independent learning
and others without focusing attention on the instrument responsible for acquiring them and
the relationship with its clienteles.
With this Morgan (2003) describes the academic library thus:- Long known as the
only educational institution that educates silently, which provides a large collection or wide
variety of materials specially selected and evaluated for their teaching value and education.
Gagg also contributes his own quota (2008) in academic library activities and how to
get good results opined that: the detailed guidance in the library materials will be of utmost
value in helping even the least experienced reader to get good results, for he is taken step by
step through each lesson.
Due to the harmful effects of poor educational standards and performance in
examination, can we say with greater clarity and certainty whether the academic libraries do
or do not improve the educational standards and academic performance of children in post
primary institution.
Awoniyi, [2004] emphasizes, teachers, parents, librarians and others who express
concern about the harmful effects of the fall in our educational standards have raise the
spectra of academic library potentials for constructing our intellectual and social horizons by
converting “backward readers” in to passive and highly influential “active readers” and “dull
students” in to “very bright students”.
19
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.0
INTRODUCTION
These research methodology focuses on Research Design, Population of the study,
Sample and sampling techniques, Instrumentation for data collection, Validation of
instrumentation, Reliability of Instrument, Method of Data Collection and Method of data
analysis.
3.1
RESEARCH DESIGN
Okafor (2002) defined research design as a comprehensive plan or blue print showing
how the research will be used to solve the already identified problem. For the purpose of this
study the survey research design will be used for this study. Survey research is the collecting
information about a group of people by asking them questions and analyzing the results. hey
are a good choice when you want to find out about the characteristics, preferences, opinions,
or beliefs of a group of people.
3.2
POPULATION OF THE STUDY
The population for the study targets students in Department of library Information
Science, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-uku, consisting of ND 1 and ND 2 Students which
have a total number of 72 students.
3.3
SAMPLE AND SAMPLING TECHNIQUES
The sample technique for this research is purposive sampling. A purposive sample is a
non-probability sample that is selected based on characteristics of a population and the
20
objective of the study therefore it is used where a researcher selects a sample based on their
knowledge about the study and population. Purposive sampling is also known as judgmental,
selective, or subjective sampling.
3.4
INSTRUMENT OF DATA COLLECTION
For the purpose of this research the questionnaire was adopted as the instrument that
was used for data collection.
3.5
VALIDATION OF INSTRUMENT
The instruments were given to experts including the project supervisor for validation.
This enables the project supervisor to make some input and ensure the validity of the
questionnaire in order to obtain effective data for the study.
3.6
RELIABLITY OF INSTRUMENT
A test is said to be reliable if its consistency yields the same results when repeated.
Measurement of a property is taken of the same entities, under the same conditions. In
addition, the reliability of a measuring instrument can be expressed as the free scores
variance to the actual score variance. The researcher used the test-retest process to establish
the reliability of the research instrument. The test-retest is a process whereby the researcher
administered the constructed questionnaire to the same sampled group more than once with
the view of discovering how consistent each element of the group is in the scoring of the
instrument at those different times.
21
3.7
METHOD OF DATA COLLECTION
Primarily, since the study is on empirical one, the data for this study is obtained from
information gathered mainly from questionnaires which is administered to students of Library
Information Science, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-uku by the researcher.
Secondarily, other source of data in this research work is from journals, magazines,
newspapers, textbooks, internet, unpublished note etc. related to the course of the work.
3.8
METHOD OF DATA ANALYSIS
In analyzing the data, the researcher present the result of data collected in tables and
analyzed statistically through simple percentage which helped to bring about clarity and no
discrepancy in the result statement. Tables were used to show frequency distribution of
responses.
𝑓
𝑁
x
100
1
𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑓 = 𝑓𝑟𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑒,
𝑁 = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑝𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠
𝐼 = 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡, 𝑎 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑓𝑖𝑔𝑢𝑟𝑒
22
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA ANALYSIS, PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
4.1
Data Analysis and Presentation
The researcher designed and administered 72 sample questionnaires to students of the
department of Library and information Science, (ND 1 and ND 2). Summary of the data
collection from respondents to the sample questionnaire are presented in following below.
Table 1: Level of Respondents
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
ND 1
31
43
ND 2
41
57
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
Table 1 above shows that, 31 (43%) respondents are in National Diploma (ND) 1 (100
level) while other 41 (57%) respondents are in the National Diploma (ND) 2 (200 level) in
the department under view.
Table 2: Sex of Respondents
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Male
34
47
Female
38
53
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
Table 2 above reveals that, 34 (47%) of the respondents are of the male gender, while
other 38 (53%) respondents are of the female gender.
23
Table 3: Age Distribution
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
15-20
16
22
21-25
35
49
26-30
18
25
31-above
3
4
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
From the above, 16 (22%) respondents of the population falls within the age bracket
of 15-20 years while 35 (49%) respondents are in the age bracket of 21-25years, 18 (25%)
respondents are within 26-30 years of age and 3 (4%) respondents are within age 31 and
Above.
Table 4: Level of Respondents
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
63
87.5
No
9
12.5
Total
92
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
The above table depicts that, 63 (89.5%) respondents do make use of the Academic
library facility as they answered positively while other 9 (12%) respondents do not use the
Academic library facility as their answer was no.
Table 5: Do you often visit the library?
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
63
87.5
No
9
12.5
Total
92
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
24
The table 5 shows that 63 (87.5%) respondents often visit the library, while the
remaining 9 (12.5%) respondents do not visit the facility.
Table 6: Do the use of library have any impact on you?
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
63
87.5
No
9
12.5
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
The above table depicts that, 63 (87.5%) respondents are impacted through the use of
the library as they answered positively while other 9 (12.5%) respondents are not impacted
by the use of the library facility as their answer was no.
Table 7: Have Library staffs impacted in you Library Ethics, Reading and other Skills?
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
63
87.5
No
9
12.5
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
The above table depicts that, 63 (87.5%) respondents say that the library staffs have
impacted Library Ethics, Reading and other Skills in them while other 9 (12.5%) respondents
say that the Library staffs have not impacted Library Ethics, Reading and other Skills in them
as their answer was no.
25
Table 8: Does the reading culture and skills acquired have impact on the performance
of the students?
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
58
99
No
2
3
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
The above table depicts that, 58 (99%) respondents say that the reading culture and
skills acquired have impact on the performance of the students as they answered positively
while other 2 (3%) respondents are of the opinion that the reading culture and skills acquired
do not have impact on the performance of the students as their answer was no.
Table 9: The use of Library made you exposed to wide range of materials?
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
63
87.5
No
9
12.5
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
Table 9 says, 63 (87.5%) respondents say that the use of Library made them exposed
to wide range of materials, while other 9 (12.5%) respondents are of the use of Library have
not made them exposed to wide range of materials as their answer was no.
Table 10: The use of Library made you have sound background knowledge of course?
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
70
99
No
2
3
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
26
The above table 10 depicts that, 70 (97%) respondents say that the use of the library
made them have sound background knowledge while other 2 (3%) respondents are of the
opinion that the use of Library did not make them have sound background knowledge of
course the reading culture and skills acquired do not have impact on the performance of the
students as their answer was no.
Table 11: The use of Library made you have General success in examination
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
63
87.5
No
9
12.5
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
Table 11 above notes that 63 (87.5%) respondents say that the use of Library made
them have General success in examination, while other 9 (12.5%) respondents are of the use
of Library have not made them have General success in examination.
Table 12.5: The Academic library service provides Reference Services
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
70
97
No
2
3
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
The table 12.5 shows that, 70 (97%) respondents say that the Academic library
service provides Reference Services while other 2 (3%) respondents are of the opinion that
the Academic library service do not provide Reference Services.
27
Table 13: The Academic library service provides Lending Services
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
63
87.5
No
9
12.5
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
Table 13 states that 63 (87.5%) respondents say that the Academic library service
provides Lending Services, while other 9 (12.5%) respondents are of opinion that the
Academic library service do not provide Lending Services.
Table 14: The Academic library service provides Recreational Services
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
14
19
No
58
81
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
Table 14 notes that 14 (19%) respondents say that the Academic library service
provides Recreational Services, while other 58 (81%) respondents are of the Academic
library service do not provide Recreational Services.
Table 15: The Academic library service provided increases independent learning
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
70
97
No
2
3
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
28
The table 12.5 shows that, 70 (97%) respondents say that the Academic library
service provided increases independent learning, while other 2 (3%) respondents are of the
opinion that the Academic library service have not increased independent learning.
Table 16: The Academic library service provided makes it difficult to the ability to use
other libraries
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
67
93
No
5
7
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
Table 16 states that 67 (93%) respondents say that the Academic library service
provided makes it difficult to the ability to use other libraries, while other 5 (7%) respondents
are of the Academic library service provided do not make it difficult to the ability to use other
libraries.
Table 19: The use of Library made you have General success in examination
Response
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Yes
70
97
No
2
3
Total
72
100%
Source: Field Survey, 2022
The table 19 shows that, 70 (97%) respondents say that the use of Library made you
have General success in examination, while other 2 (3%) respondents are of the opinion that
the use of Library do not guaranty General success in examination.
29
4.2
DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
The outcome of the study data analyzed and discussed answer to the research
questions put forward to investigate and establish the Academic library as an effective
instrument for achieving academics excellence. The findings are:a)
The Academic library promotes reading habits and makes valuable contribution to the
educational programs of the Institution.
b)
Reading skills when acquire significantly improves the students reading performance.
c)
Independent reading, learning and formation of good reading habits can only be
effective when the reading skills and library skills had been taught and acquired.
d)
Students are encouraged to read good books and excellent collection of a variety of
educational materials which has been selected, systematically arrange on shelves and
classified to demonstrate inter-relationship of subjects for easily accessible to be
retrieved.
e)
The functions, services and activities of the Academic libraries exerts subtitle
influence on the students’ academic.
f)
Inadequate scholarly materials is one of the problem most Nigeria students face, in
development of reading habits and in achieving academic excellence. Also, the stock
of the Academic libraries is not encourageable.
30
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENTATIONS
5.1
SUMMARY
The Academic library provides an opportunity for meaningful change, it is meant to
help develop some clear positive motivation for learning and succeeding in school.
The most important discussion, but frequently experience virtue of an education is
that it is an excellent confidence by what you know is a good way to gain a positive attitude
“knowledge is power”, when you feel confident you can meet difficult situations ahead, but
with the self-assurance, you will succeed. It is clear that Academic libraries opens up
immeasurable gateway to the acquisition of skills, knowledge and competences which will
equip the learner for continuous success in academic pursuits and of immense benefit to
himself, family and the society at large. Libraries has indeed transformed the face of the
world in knowledge and the Academic libraries has a major factor in education and in
promoting reading habits amongst students.
Therefore, Academic libraries are the heart of the institution and the apex on which
the intellectual’s life of the school rests. Also, the most important sources of educational
information.
5.2
CONCLUSION
Academic library is a dynamic instrument of educational excellence. As there is no
better way of encouraging students to read other than proper provision and presentation of a
wide range of good books which the school librarian by virtue of his profession has the
expertise to select, evaluate, acquire, process and promote reading habits in students. Reading
31
is said to be essential for success in all academic subjects and Academic libraries are
indispensable in the formation of good reading habits.
The development of human resources through education, calls for efficiency in
reading and learning, hence the society has realized that human development move needs to
be controlled and directed.
5.3
RECOMMENDATIONS
It is recommended that the Academic libraries in the areas of study do not play their
roles effectively due to inherent problems. In view of this, this research prefer solutions to
includes:1.
The institution management board should as a matter of urgency deploy professional
librarians and library assistants to our tertiary institutions in order to produce certified
graduates of NCE, HND and BSc. in library science. This will increase the functions
and improve library services in the institution.
2.
The librarians are to embark on the job training to improve their competence and keep
them abreast with the modern trends in librarianship. Also, they should be given the
opportunity to attend conferences, participate in seminars, workshops and symposia
organized by the Nigerian Library Association and her likes.
32
REFERENCE
Adefarati E. O. (2002). Essentials of Library in Education, Crofess Computers, Ondo.
Nigeria.
Aduwa, S. E. (2004). Dynamising the Instructional System: An inquiry for effective
childhood education in Nigeria. Nigerian Journal Curriculum Studies, 11(2), 239–245.
Akinboye, J. O. (1974). Study habits modification, study attitude change and academic
performance (Unpublished Masters Thesis). University of Ibadan, Ibadan.
Allan, R.V (2003) The Academic library media programme: Instructional force excellence
New York: Bowker.
Dike, V.W. (2009) “The school library: An instrument for educational reforms”. National
Journal of Library Science 9(5), 16–33.
Francis, B. H., Lance, K. C., and Lietzau, Z. (2010). School librarians continue to help
students achieve standards: The third Colorado study. Colorado: Library Research
Service
Haycock. K. (1975). The Crisis in Canada’s Academic libraries. (Association of Canadian
Publishers and Heritage Canada); David Coish. Canadian Academic libraries and
Teacher Librarians.
Ishola, B. C, (2002). Availability, Access to and Level of Use of Academic Library
Information Resources; Study of Selected Academic Libraries in South Western
Nigeria. Journal of Education and Practice.
Iyamu, E. (2005). Parents’ and teachers’ perception of selection as a factor of quality in the
curriculum process in Nigeria. International Education Journal, 6(1), 96–103.
33
Jato, M., Ogunniyi, S. O. and Olubiyo, P. O. (2014). Study habits, use of Academic libraries
and students’ academic performance in selected secondary schools in Ondo West
Local Government Area of Ondo State. International Journal of Library and
Information Science 21(1): 56 – 72.
Kolawole, C. O. (2005). The State of Reading in some selected Secondary Schools in Southwestern Nigeria: A preliminary Report. Issues in language, Communication and
Education. A book of Reading in Honour of Caroline A. Okedara. Counstellations
Books.
Mabekoje, O. (2005). Understanding English Grammar and Art of Communication.
Enterprises.
McCleory, O. (2006). A Guide to Effective Use of Library in Nigeria. Laville Publications.
Morgan, H.W (2003) The Academic library at work. New York: H.W Wilson Company.
Tactz, P. (2006). Factors affecting the reading habits of students. Library Review, 44(4), 50–
59. doi:10.1108/00242639510089750
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Tyler, P, (2008). The advantages of reading. Lagos: Nigerbiblios
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government area. Zaria Journal of Librarianship, 6(1&2), 30.
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reading habits among primary and secondary school students. Academic Press.
34
APPENDIX
Department of Library and information Science
School of Information and Comm. Tech.
Delta State Polytechnic
P.M.B 1030,
Ogwashi-Uku
Dear Respondents,
LETTER OF INTRODUCTION
I am a final year student of the above named department and school and as part of the
fulfilment of the requirement of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, I am conducting a
research on the "Academic Library services as an effective instrument for achieving academic
excellence: A Case study of Library and Information Science Students".
Please kindly respond objectively to the question as your responses will be
confidentially treated since the purpose of this research work is purely for academic purpose.
Thanks, as I look forward for your cooperation and responses.
Yours Faithfully,
Researcher.
35
QUESTIONNAIRE
This section is divided into two parts: Section I which is the Bio-data of respondents and
section II carries questions which was derived from the research questions of the study. Tick
or fill in the boxes provided
SECTION A: BIODATA
1.
Level
ND 1 [
]
NDII [
]
2.
Sex:
Male [
]
Female [
]
3.
Age
15-20 [
]
21-25 [
]
26-30 [
]
31-above [
]
RESEARCH QUESTION 1
S/N
QUESTION
YES NO
4.
Do you use the school library?
5.
Do you often visit the school library?
6.
Do the use of library have any impact on you?
7.
Have Library staffs impacted in you Library Ethics, Reading and other
Skills?
8.
Does reading culture and skills acquired impact on the performance of the
students?
RESEARCH QUESTION 2
9.
The use of Library made you exposed to wide range of materials
10. The use of Library made you have sound background knowledge of
course
11. The use of Library made you have General success in examination
RESEARCH QUESTION 4
12. The Academic library service provides Reference Services
13. The Academic library service provides Lending Services
14. The Academic library service provides Recreational Services
RESEARCH QUESTION 3
15. The Academic library service provided increases independent learning
16. The Academic library service provided makes it difficult to the ability to
use other libraries
17. The Academic library service provided increases Reading Habits
36