THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN ENHANCING LIBRARY SERVICE DELIVERY AT IBRAHIM BADAMASI BABANGIDA UNIVERSITY, LAPAI, NIGERIA

Abstract

This research investigated the nexus between social media usage and service provision by library personnel within Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Niger State, Nigeria. The study's structure is based on four distinct objectives, each of which has related research questions. Employing a survey design, the research focuses on a target group comprising 60 library staff members, encompassing librarians and other library personnel affiliated with IBB University, Lapai. Given the limited population size, a complete enumeration approach is employed for data collection, utilising self-structured questionnaires. Data analysis entails the application of statistical techniques, including frequency counts, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviation. The findings of the study reveal that the primary library services offered encompass library education, reference services, and library orientation. Moreover, the study highlights that library personnel predominantly utilise WhatsApp and Facebook as their preferred platforms for service delivery. The research recommends the inclusion of alternative power sources, such as generators, inverters, and solar panels, to enhance the reliability of energy supply in the university library under examination. Additionally, it advocates for the adoption of various social media platforms, including blogs, YouTube, Myspace, RSS, Skype, and Flickr, to augment the efficiency of library service delivery. Furthermore, the study underscores the necessity for increased funding from governmental and institutional sources to bolster the facilities and resources essential for optimal service delivery. The outcomes of this research hold substantial implications for university policymakers, library administrators, librarians, and library personnel, aiming to enhance library service provision not only at IBB University, Lapai, but also across institutions throughout Nigeria.