Availability of reference sources and services in selected academic libraries in Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the reference sources and services in some selected academic institution libraries in Niger State. To achieve the set objectives of the study, two research questions were raised: what is the extent of availability of reference sources in academic libraries in Niger State, what is the extent of availability of reference services in academic libraries in Niger State. Descriptive survey design method was adopted for the study. A random sampling technique was used in selecting respondents for each institution library. Questionnaire was the instrument used for the collection of data. The data collected were analyzed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). The results were presented using frequency counts, percentages and mean scores. The findings revealed that in all the academic libraries surveyed, the provision of the major reference sources like encyclopedias, dictionaries, biographical sources and fact sources were moderately available and high, but that of geographical sources and literature search tools were low. Similarly, the provision of the major reference information services like library orientation, directional, information on research, information on specific topic, question and answer services were high, however indexing and abstracting, inter-library loan and study guide information services were not available. The researchers therefore recommended that the procurement of current and up to date reference sources as well as provision of professional services to the users to enhance and sustain high level reference services.