Examining the types and purpose of cloud computing used for library services delivery in academic libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria
Background of the study: The implementation and integration of information and communication technology in library services and operations has revolutionized traditional practices, enabling libraries to adapt to the evolving needs of users in the digital era.
Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to examine the types and purposes of cloud computing used for library service delivery in academic libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria.
Methods: The study used a descriptive survey approach. The population was all the 108 librarians in the eight universities in Kwara State, Nigeria. A total enumeration sampling technique was employed, and a questionnaire was used to collect data from the librarians. The study answered three research questions.
Findings: The study revealed that OCLC, Word cat, Google Docs, and other types of cloud computing are being utilized by the librarians. The study also revealed that poor internet connectivity, among other challenges, militates against the use of cloud computing for academic library service delivery.
Conclusion: The study concluded that the librarians make use of cloud computing for library services. The study recommends that the library should provide reliable internet facilities with fast speeds, high broadband, and reliable power supplies, among others.
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Introduction
The incorporation of information and communication technologies (ICTs) into library services has transformed traditional methods, allowing libraries to meet evolving user demands in today's digital era. ICTs have not only enhanced access to information but also streamlined library operations, broadening the array of resources accessible to patrons(Inyang, 2016). These technological advancements have instigated substantial shifts across multiple sectors, such as education, healthcare, business, and entertainment. They have redefined information creation, storage, dissemination, and consumption, fostering improved efficiency, connectivity, and avenues for collaborative innovation(Earl et al., 2014). Cloud computing, a key ICT, has revolutionized the management and utilization of computing resources for organizations. These services offer flexible access to scalable computing capabilities, storage, applications, and more via the internet. For organizations aiming to leverage the advantages of this technology, understanding its diverse offerings is crucial(Srivastava & Verma, 2015). Nevertheless, despite the global strides in ICT integration within libraries, disparities and challenges persist across various regions and institutions. Issues like inadequate infrastructure, limited financial resources, digital skill gaps, and resistance to technological change hinder the full potential of the ICT transformation in libraries(Chutia, 2015).
Cloud computing services offer an efficient solution for delivering services in university libraries. Implementing cloud computing can significantly enhance the quality of library services by ensuring visually appealing and user-friendly library websites. This not only enhances the library's online presence but also improves its reputation for quality web-based service delivery. According to(Dinesh et al., 2015), adopting cloud computing in academic libraries enables innovative and efficient operations. This flexibility allows for the seamless transition from traditional barcode systems to advanced Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technologies for library items(Acharya, 2019). Given the global trends in cloud computing technology and its successful application in university libraries worldwide, there is an imperative to embrace these innovations in Nigeria, particularly in university libraries in Kwara State, to harness the extensive benefits of cloud computing for library services.
(Makori & Mauti, 2016)articulated that modern libraries are adopting innovative digital systems with the aim of ensuring that the institutions and users access timely and relevant information and knowledge resources irrespective of their location. This has been due to a sudden transformation in the way accessibility of information has dynamically shifted to virtual platforms.(Yuvaraj, 2015)stated that nowadays, phones, laptops, and tablets are found everywhere owing to their ease in portability and improved computing power. This prompts academic libraries to provide services and information resources in the virtual environment in line with the preference of users or risk isolating them.
(Khatib & Opulencia, 2015)expressed that cloud computing technologies have provided libraries with great opportunities which enhance the management, access, and dissemination of information resources to users. This has greatly transformed the educational procedure and enhanced the quality of services offered in libraries.(Tritt & Kendrick, 2014)reiterated that with efficiency improvements and large savings in operational cost as well as upfront capital costs for tech startups, cloud computing carries the characteristics of a disruptive general- purpose technology with a potential to greatly impact the economy as a whole. According to(Aher et al., 2016), cloud computing technologies permit the sharing and use of services and resources via the web instead of having them on native servers or individual devices. For example,(Chunhong, 2014-01)identified that implementation of cloud technologies among university libraries in China is manifested through the development and growth of library digital portals which consist of three features: the integration of services, resources, and the management platform.
Cloud service provider’s offer several software and hardware services that academic libraries can determine how they can become part of the cloud environment. The selected cloud computing services by academic libraries can help in saving resources where software and servers are located outside the library premises(Yuvaraj, 2016).(Yuvaraj, 2016)stated that libraries in the USA have also adopted several cloud applications like Dropbox, Libguides, Makerspaces, VMware, OfficeLive, and Bluelock in service delivery. A study conducted by(Khatib & Opulencia, 2015)detailed that libraries in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) found out that constant electricity disruptions and local power blackouts affected the access to online services.
(Makori, 2016)conveyed that in Kenya, libraries have also adopted some of these cloud solutions. The commonly used cloud-based services include emails, social media, electronic databases, institutional repositories, remote access software, and library management systems like Koha.(Aher et al., 2016)opined that globally, libraries are shifting towards the implementation of cloud services with the sole purpose of improving service delivery, managing resources, and finding new avenues for growth. Subsequently, the application of cloud computing technologies eliminates the need for libraries to host multiple servers and other infrastructures within the vicinity and regularly deal with hardware breakdowns, installation, and upgrading of software, as well as compatibility problems.
Moreover,(Srivastava & Verma, 2015)state that cloud computing services are offered globally through global service providers in addition to being always available on demand irrespective of the size and location of the library. This popularity of cloud computing technologies in libraries has been attributed to its capability of providing quicker on-demand computing infrastructures, self-service, and independent capability to access information resources(Changchit & Chuchuen, 2018).(Alkhater et al., 2017-04)indicated that cloud computing has been among the present-day popular technologies offering IT resources as utility services. Cloud computing technologies are valuable for private use as
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