Collection Development and its implication on the future of research in Nigerian Universities

Abstract

This study identified the important role collection development (CO) in enhancing the attainment of the aims and objectives for which Nigerian universities were established. It was observed that the financial support towards this direction is dwindling on annual basis. Other efforts made were, said to be unreliable and ineffective compared to needs. The resultant effect of this is lack of expected current information resources to support universities objectives. Meanwhile, various efforts made to equip university libraries such as the 10% directive, the role of Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) and Education Trust Fund (ETF), among others were examined. The negative attitude of Principal Officers (POs) towards CO and the misuse of available funds were discussed. The paper concluded that unless due attention is given to remedy the ugly CO situation, research and development necessary for the development of all sectors of national economy may be stagnated. However, recommendations, such as disbanding the ETF, as currently constituted and its replacement by proposed Basic Education Trust Fund and Company Tax Fund (CTF) with new guidelines was mode. It was also proposed, among others that a dedicated account be opened for each university library; setting up of a viable Library Development Committee (IDC); allocation of at least 10% of internally generated revenue to library collection development by each university.