ENHANCING INFORMATION MANAGEMENT IN LIBRARIES THROUGH APPLICATION OF MULTIMEDIA

Abstract

The paper looked at the application of Multimedia Resources in enhancing Information Management in Libraries. The paper identified the various ways in which multimedia resources are used to enhance information management in libraries. These include the preservation of information, circulation of materials, answering users’ queries, resource sharing, entertainment purposes, information delivery, self-learning, tools, multimedia catalogs, electronic publishing, geographic information systems and social networking. The writers noted that despite these numerous advantages of application of multi media resources to libraries, libraries are still having various challenges in their application. Such challenges include: lack of equipment, lack of interest by library management in acquiring and managing multimedia resources, mismanagement of multimedia resources, lack of funds, lack of preservation of multimedia and lack of trained personnel. It is recommended that funds should be provided for continuing education and training for multimedia staff and the provision of a stable budget. Furthermore, equipment should be provided, obsolete or damaged materials should be repaired or removed before purchase spare parts must be available, multimedia staff must be dedicated to their work, library instructions should include the use of multimedia and regular training, seminars, conferences and workshops should be organized.