ADAPTING LIBRARY SERVICES TO MEET THE INFORMATION NEEDS OF DIVERSE STUDENT POPULATION IN THE ERA OF DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES

Abstract

The study investigated how university libraries in Nigeria are adapting library services to meet the information needs of a diverse student population, predominantly comprising Gen Zs in the era of disruptive technologies. A qualitative research approach was adopted in this study, using semi-structured interviews and purposive sampling to collect data from 25 librarians and library officers working in the Reference Section, Reader’s Services Department and Automation Department from four federal institutions in Nigeria. The four federal institutions were selected because they have successfully integrated ICT into their library operations and offer tailored services to meet Gen Z's information needs. Using semi-structured interviews, Data was analyzed thematically. Findings revealed the emergence of new roles for librarians, including managing institutional repositories, promoting electronic resources, and providing IT support in academic libraries. Findings also revealed how the selected universities were using disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, Makerspaces, and other innovative services to meet the academic, informational and recreational needs of their diverse population. The study concludes that libraries should be more proactive in providing fit-for-purpose services to the student population, especially the Gen Zs who form a majority of the student population in Nigerian universities. The study recommends that LIS professionals do away with outdated library service delivery practices that are no longer effective in meeting the needs of today’s library users; reluctance to adopt new technologies and practices, and overreliance on traditional library service. This research provides valuable insights into the transformation of library services for a diverse student population and proposes strategic recommendations for enhancing library services tailored to the needs of Gen Zs, from a developing country's context.