Library Automation in Nigeria: The Bowen University Experience (Report‪)‬

Introduction The application of ICT to almost all spheres of life is no longer a new phenomenon. Shiloba (2005) stated that for libraries and librarians to cope with the information demands by the users they need to have the knowledge, skills and tools in handling digital information. Libraries in Nigeria are trying to automate their functions. According to Agha (1986) library automation has been a subject of attention since the mid 1970s because of the spreading knowledge of the new technologies. However, there have been challenges and constraints facing library automation which could be general. The challenges and/or constraints include, among others: erratic power supply, inadequate professional librarians to execute the project, absence of maintenance and support agreement, poor ICT infrastructure, poor funding, and poor ICT skills among library staff. (Agha, 1986; Alabi, 1986; Agboola, 1993; OndariOkemiwa 1999; Agboola, 2000; Ani, Esin and Edem 2005; Oduwole, 2005; Igun, 2006; Nok, 2006; Igben and Akobo, 2007; and Adeyomoye, 2008).