USE OF INNOVATIVE AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICE DELIVERY

Abstract

This paper is conceptual one and investigated the use of innovative and emerging technology in ensuring sustainable library and information service delivery in libraries, information centres and educational institutions. Four research questions were formulated to guide the conceptual/documentary research to include types, use, advantages challenges and strategies to overcome the challenges in the use of technologies. The innovative technologies used in providing information service include:- closed-circuit television, and the radio frequency identification (FRID) as tools or technologies for preserving and securing library collections, as well as determining the circulation status of collections; facilities and resources; use of webcam in the provision of online reference services; video conferencing for enlightenment of rural dwellers on the aspect of socio-economic, health and democracy; technology for a national union catalogue, media technology (radio, television and video); mobile technology, social media platform; digital technology; commercial and library websites; marker space and training laboratories in libraries respectively. Other innovative technology, includes the use of assistive technology devices. The information services include: circulation, current awareness services, selective dissemination of information, outreach/extension, information services, bibliographic and referral services that are used in conjunction with the innovative and new technological devices and gadgets. Advantages of innovation technologies include: efficient provision and use of effective and meaningful service delivery as well as conservation of space. Challenges to provision and use of innovative technologies for LIS delivery include: funding, power supply, infrastructural and ICT facilities; digital divided, manpower, skills, technophobia and network issue. The paper concludes that library and information science curriculum has responded to the dynamics of LIS practices in the 21st century through timely curriculum review. The paper recommended separate and adequate budgetary allocation to libraries of all kinds; provision of automatic stand-by generating plants and manpower training.