A comparative evaluation of the networks of three Nigerian federal universities for effective library services

Abstract

This paper is a comparative evaluation of the networks of thru Nigerian federal universities and how such networks can be used to enhance library services. The university networks included in this study are the federal University of Technology Minna Network (FUTMINnet). University of Jos Network (VNIJOS net) and University of Lagos Network (UNILAGnet). University of Minna (FUTMIN). established in the 1980s. belongs to the third generation of Nigerian universities; University of Jos (VNUOS) (established in the 1970s) belongs to the second generation, while University of Lagos (UNILAG) (which was established in the 1960s) belongs to the first generation Both FUTMIN and UNIJOS are located In North Central geo-political zone of Nigeria while UNILAG is located in the South West zone The research design employs the survey technique (involving the use of questionnaire, interview and direct observation) to study the wired and wireless connections of the networks of the three universities and compare them against criteria such as network media, bandwidth, latency, and users' response Specifically. 100 semi-structured questionnaires were administered to the network users of each of the three universities giving a total of300 questionnaires The stud reveals that with respect to wireless service UNIJOSnet is the fastest while in terms of the wired service. UNILAGnet is the fastest FUTMINNet services, when compared with the UNIJOSNet and UN I LAG Net. are not salts fane its users as a result of poor management of available network infrastructure, which in turn affects the quality services easier and faster as users. Wireless services of UNIJOSNet make access to library services easier and faster as users can log on to the network at any time of the day; while wired networks of UNILAGNet has the advantage of easy download of online materials but limited to certain times of the day. A case is made to improve the services of the three networks by upgrading and expanding the existing network components and infrastructures of all the networks, especially FUTMINnet.