Assessment of preservation and use of information resources in polytechnic libraries in Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed preservation and use of information resources in two polytechnic libraries in Niger State, Nigeria. Which are: Federal Polytechnic, Bida, Library and Niger State Polytechnic, Zungeru, Library. Questionnaire was used to collect data from forty-eight (48) professional and para-professional staff from the two polytechnic libraries. The data collected were analysed using mean scores and standard deviation. Findings of the study revealed that Natural disasters, biological and environmental factors were responsible for deterioration of information resources and photocopying, re-binding and fumigation techniques were adopted for preservation of information resources and the challenges faced by polytechnic libraries included lack of plans for managing records and lack of preservation policy and strategy. Based on the findings, the study recommended that Management of polytechnic libraries in Niger State should carry out preservation exercise from time to time such as fumigation of the entire library building and should also employ the services of preservation consultants to train their staff on preservation operations.