ICT Applications and Management in Nigerian Academic Libraries

Abstract

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has reshaped how academic libraries organise information, support research and respond to users. In Nigerian academic libraries, ICT is visible in automated cataloguing, circulation control, electronic databases, institutional repositories, online reference services, library orientation, research assistance and administrative record keeping. However, successful ICT application is not measured by the presence of computers and internet facilities alone. It depends on purposeful management, steady funding, functional infrastructure, trained librarians, user education, technical support and clear institutional policy. This paper examines ICT applications and management in Nigerian academic libraries through a literature-based review. The review was organised around four questions on major ICT applications, ICT support for library management and service delivery, factors influencing ICT management, and recommendations for improvement. The discussion is supported by library and information science studies, including works associated with Sophia V. Adeyeye and Lead City University scholars. The paper is guided by the Technology Acceptance Model and Task-Technology Fit Theory. The review shows that ICT improves access to information, enhances service delivery, supports academic research and promotes efficient library administration. It also shows that weak infrastructure, irregular power supply, limited digital skills, inadequate training, poor maintenance and insufficient funding continue to affect ICT management. The paper concludes that ICT should be managed as an integrated service system that connects technology, staff capacity, user needs and institutional objectives.