Problems and Prospects of Digitization of Arabic Manuscripts in Nigerian Libraries

Abstract

Inadequacies in the preservation of paper-based materials using traditional methods (storage, filing, fumigation, photocopying etc) in Nigerian libraries justify the need to adopt a more convenient and modern method of Information Management otherwise known as preservation of paper- based materials through digitization. It involves conversion of printed material into a machine-readable format using computer scanner, printer, Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) etc. Digitization is associated with numerous problems which include: tedious nature/slow pace of the exercise, epileptic power supply, unskilled manpower, lack of adequate motivation and funding issue. Despite the problems enumerated above, there are several prospects of digitization and they include: creation of database, reduction in manual handling of physical document as computer system is passworded; prolonging the lifespan of original manuscripts, conservation of space thereby solving the problems of accommodation/storage facilities, easy accessibility to information though online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC). Having identified the problems and prospects above, it is very crucial to proffer suggestions on how digitization of Arabic Manuscripts in Nigerian libraries can be improved. Some of the suggestions include: Provision for adequate funding; Stand by generating plants, staff development programs for staff involved in the digitization exercises. Others include policy on digitization and the appointment of administrative heads of IT sections to various organizations as well as the use of various motivational techniques and Networking of Nigerian libraries