Towards effective development of electronic information resources in Nigerian university libraries

Purpose - This study aims to provide the framework for effective development of electronic information resources (EIRs) in Nigeria; it seeks to explore the levels of developing electronic information resources in university libraries in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach - The study adopted the survey method in the collection of research data. Validated questionnaires were administered to participants at a national workshop on Electronic Information for Libraries Network (eIFL. net) held at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, from 17-20 October, 2007. Findings - The findings show that the internet has been the major source of developing EIRs in Nigerian university libraries as 17 (89.5 per cent) of the surveyed libraries have internet connectivity. This is followed by subscription to electronic databases, online databases 13 (68.4 per cent) and CD-ROMs 11 (57.9 per cent); electronic journals ten (52.6 per cent) and library computerization ten (52.6 per cent) while digitization of library materials received the least responses of three (15.8 per cent). From the survey findings, there is a high level of developing EIRs in Nigerian university libraries through direct subscription for electronic information (online databases, CD-ROMs etc.) than conversion of information into electronic form in the library through computerization and digitization. Research limitations/implications - There is a need to encourage local research in Nigeria by improving on the current level of conversion of local information for national and international access by users. Mass computerisation of library services and digitization of relevant library materials should be encouraged in university libraries in the country. Originality/value - The paper provides insight into the level of development and utilization of EIRs in Nigerian universities