Digitization and Preservation as Means of Accessing Information in Nigerian University Libraries: A Case Study of Bayero University, Kano and Kashim Ibrahim Library, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Abstract

The study examined digitization and its usage by academic libraries to preserve and facilitate access to information sources. Case study method of research was adopted. A total number of 250 questionnaire was used through the administration of questionnaires, one hundred and seventy five (175) questionnaires were properly completed and returned for analysis, this enable the researchers to arrive at the findings and to reach conclusion in the study. The study identified that digitization could be used as means to enhancing access by making available information to present and future users of the library. This was obtained from the data collected where it was shown that digitization make access to information resources easier as recorded in the responses of 113 (64.57%) obtained from the respondents. It was also established that digitization of library resources is highly relevant as recorded in the responses of 147 (84%). From the study only highly demanded books should be digitized in the library as responded by 67 (38.29%) from staff in the library, followed by other textbooks. The benefits of digitization in the library as a means of providing access to the materials in the library and the means of preservation as recorded from the responses of 93(53.14%) was established. The study established that digitization of information resources is relevant to library services as recorded in the responses of 147 (84%). Printed materials could only be designed for the use of one reader while digital materials could be accessed by thousands of readers simultaneously provided the equipment are put in place in the library.