The Impact of Library Automation on Service Delivery in Ambrose Alli University Library

Chapter One

1.1 Background of the Study

Library automation involves the use of technology to manage library operations. These operations include cataloguing, circulation, acquisitions, and user services. Automation aims to make library services faster, more accurate, and more efficient (Okoro, 2020). Modern libraries use automated systems to provide easy access to resources and improve user satisfaction.

Ambrose Alli University Library has implemented an automated system to handle its resources. This system allows students and staff to search the library catalogue online. It also supports borrowing, returning, and tracking of library materials. Automation reduces manual errors and shortens the time spent on library tasks. It also provides users with quicker access to books, journals, and electronic resources (Iwhiwhu, 2019).

Despite these advantages, some students and staff still encounter challenges when using automated services. Technical failures, lack of training, and poor internet connectivity affect the smooth operation of the system. These challenges may limit the benefits of library automation. Therefore, it is important to study the impact of library automation on service delivery in Ambrose Alli University Library.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Before automation, library staff manually handled cataloguing, circulation, and record keeping. This process was slow and prone to errors. With automation, some improvements are visible. However, users still report difficulties. Some systems are not user-friendly. Others experience delays in accessing certain resources.

In addition, some library staff lack adequate training in using the automated system. Students may also be unaware of the full range of services provided digitally. These problems affect service delivery and user satisfaction. Therefore, a study is necessary to evaluate how automation influences service quality in the library.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to assess the impact of library automation on service delivery in Ambrose Alli University Library.

The specific objectives are to

1. identify the types of automated services available in the library

2. assess the level of usage of automated services by students and staff

3. examine the effect of automation on the quality of library services

4. identify challenges associated with using the automated system

1.4 Research Questions

This study seeks to answer the following questions

1. What types of automated services are available in Ambrose Alli University Library

2. What is the level of usage of automated services by students and staff

3. How does library automation affect the quality of service delivery

4. What challenges are associated with the automated system

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study will provide insight into the effectiveness of library automation in Ambrose Alli University. The findings will help librarians improve training programmes for both staff and students. Administrators will also benefit by understanding the areas that require technological upgrades.

Students will gain from improved service delivery. Faster access to information and resources will enhance their research and learning. The study will also contribute to academic literature on library automation and information service management.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on Ambrose Alli University Library. It examines automated services, their usage, and their effect on service delivery. It also covers the challenges faced by staff and students when using the automated system. The study does not include manual library processes in other universities.

1.7 Definition of Key Terms

Library Automation refers to the use of computer systems to perform library tasks and manage resources.
Service Delivery refers to how efficiently library users access and benefit from available resources.
Automated Services include online catalogues, electronic borrowing systems, and database access.
User Satisfaction refers to the degree to which library users are happy with the services provided.