INTERNET RESEARCH FOR LIBRARY AND INFORMATION PROFESSIONALS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Abstract Internet research became an important aspect of library and information services in Nigerian academic libraries before 2021 due to the increasing demand for electronic information resources and digital access to scholarly materials. This article examines the role of internet research in library services within the Nigerian context, with particular reference to Usmanu Danfodiyo University Library and selected academic libraries in Nigeria. The study discusses how libraries adopted internet technologies, electronic databases, Online Public Access Catalogues (OPACs), and e-library services to improve access to information for teaching, learning, and research activities. The article further explains the responsibilities of Library and Information Professionals in facilitating internet research through user education, information literacy training, and electronic resource management. The experiences of libraries such as the University of Ibadan Library, University of Lagos Library, Covenant University Library, and University of Benin Library are also highlighted to demonstrate the level of internet service development in Nigerian academic libraries before 2021. The article identifies major challenges affecting internet research in Nigeria, including inadequate funding, unstable electricity supply, poor internet connectivity, and limited ICT infrastructure. It concludes that despite these challenges, Nigerian academic libraries made significant progress in integrating internet research into library operations and contributed greatly to academic research and information accessibility in higher institutions.