THE BENEFIT OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY TO LIBRARIANS BY MBAKWE FLOSSIE ADAORAH

THE BENEFIT OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY TO LIBRARIANS


                                                                          BY

                                                  MBAKWE, FLOSSIE ADAORAH



Information Communication Technology (ICT) can be defined as the type of technology that links the computer to the global telecommunications network to make it possible for users to acquire process, compare, store and disseminate oral, printed and pictorial information. In effect, ICT embraces all the technologies that enable the handling of information and facilitate different forms of communication between man and electronic systems, and among diverse electronic systems such as radio, TV. Cellular phones, computer networks and satellite systems (Ormes and Depsey: 1977).

In all literature reveals that ICT can be categorized into five namely:

• Capturing technologies – (eg. Keyboards, touch screens, voice recognition systems, image scanner etc.)
• Storage technologies (eg. Floppy disks, smart cards, magnetic tapes, disc etc.)
• Processing technologies (eg the system and application software for data processing
• Personal computer (PC) eg compact disk, reader contains software which provides programming and operating system instruction). It is capable of providing special automatic or graphic processing applications.
• Communication technology (eg. Digital broadcasting, electronic bulleting board, cellular phones etc).
• Display technologies (eg. Digital video disc, CDROM drives, audio CD, printers computer display screen etc.

The Benefit of Information Communication Technology to Librarians

Information communication technologies has widened the scope of librarianship and conferred new roles on librarians, thus improviding their skill, efficiency and status as information workers and enabling them to fulfill their roles as purveyors of knowledge. Suffice to say that librarian have begun to adopt new designations to reflect their new roles ie information scientists, system librarian, digital librarian etc. Librarian now have the opportunity to work in libraries alongside computer scientists, technocrats and information scientists as equals. This is a plus for the profession. There is no doubt that this will induce more respect and support for policy makers and government functionaries for the profession.

Computers are being used in libraries by librarians to automate the various library functions formerly being done manually viz:

Acquisition and budget control

Cataloguing

Circulation (including short loan)

Serials control

Provision of access of online catalogues (Online Public Access Catalogue – OPAC

Reference service

Mis, Management Information System ICT components are also used for electronic mails, electronic boards and electronic conferencing and of course for word processing etc.

Computer are also being used by librarians to network the various operation of the library such as acquisition cataloguing, authority control, inter library, bibliographic projects and international bibliographic projects.

Libraries generate a lot of data and information from their day to day operation eg.:

•  Interaction with users
• Interaction with parent organizations
• Collection development activities
• Library use and maintenance activities.
• Administrative activities.

Data and information so collected are used for measuring effectiveness, trend analysis, resource allocation, personnel decision, strategic planning etc (Burford, 2003

Using ICTs libraries are now able to set up computer based information management systems. According to Lakos (1999) the major function of management information system (MIS) is to provide library managers and staff with data, information, analysis and tools that enhances the effectiveness of and efficiency of library services and assist in decision making process.

Conservation of space: Information communication technology offer opportunity for space conservation. Creation of virtual library offers Nigerian libraries a better means of storage. By digitizing significant portions of their information resources, a lot of space can be conserved. Again ICT make room for joint collection development of libraries. This will minimise the need for every library in Nigeria to acquire information resources separately.

Improved Collection Development: Information communication Technology is bound to impact greatly on the collections of the Nigerian libraries. This will enable them to meet the information needs of their parent organizations and institutions. A lot of electronic resources now abound to which the libraries can ascribe to in addition to digitizing some of the existing bibliographic resources, thereby affording libraries the opportunity to develop a hybrid of collections towards meeting the information needs of their clientele. Again through inter-library loan and resources sharing libraries with small budgets can ration-use and develop focused collections. Furthermore, it is an opportunity for libraries with specialized collections to focus on the development of such collects.

References

Nigerian Library Association. 46th Annual National Conference and AGM, Kaduna 2008.

Driving Access to knowledge: The Cataloguers Perspective in an ICT Era. NLA 2009.

Aina, I.O. (2003) Strengthening Information in Nigeria University Libraries. The Digital Option.

Burke, L. (2001). The future role of librarians in virtual library environment.

@http://www.sla.org/contents/sca/professional/businesscase/octeng/cedjo.ctm.

THE BENEFIT OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY TO LIBRARIANS

WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF ICT IN LIBRARY

This age is characterized by the phenomenon described as "information explosion" or "information glut". Libraries as centres for learning and research can nolonger cope with information management through the use of traditional methods. The advent of Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) has given librarians a face lift in the organization and management of information in the library.

The importance of ICT in the library has been explored by many writers in Library and Information ScienceProfession. This is tosay that there is enough literature in this topic.

hence,  Hinderson (1992) as cited by Anaehobi (2007) listed the advantages orthe importance of ICT in the library follows:

(a). Provision of speedy and easy access to information
(b). Provision of remote access to the users.
(c). Provision of round the clock access to the users.
(d). Access tounlimited information from different sources.
(e). Provision of flexibility to be used by any individual according tohis /her requirements.
(f). The flexibility forthe reformarting and combination of data from different sources.

Ebijuwa (2005) giving the importance ICT in the library observed that ICT can be used in the Library and Information services toprovide lecturers,students, administrators,researchers and the generalpublic with information effectively and efficiently.

The information categories,she stated include bibliographical information,catalogue information, access to originalpublications whereever they are located, information other than publications,that is facts and access to information media other than books (audio,video, and CD-ROM softwares.

In agreement with the above ideas, Anaehobi (2007) states that with the advances in ICTs, electronic information in the forms of e-books, e-journals and the Internet has launched the world into an information age. To librarians, he continued, ICT is a significant development thatprovides tools for managing the avalanche of information generated by the modern society.

In consonance with these, Omekwu  (2005) observed that ICT is very inevitable forall kinds of librariesforbetter services. Faboyinde (2006) is of the opinion that computer hasmade such a termendous impact on the organization, management and dissemination of information thatit readily commends itself toevery library to accept it or become limited in satisfying its clentele.

According to Obinyan and Adebimpe (2000), Information and Communications Tchnologies are utilized foreffectiveness and efficiency in discharging library services and to cope with contemporary issues such as incereased schoolpopulation,information explosion and theneed to bring the whole world into a global village.

ICT according to Obiyan and Adebimpe (2000) helps toachieve the following in the library:
(a). Processing of documents for acquisition,ordering and control of serials ans monographs as well as the account forthe materials.
(b). Controlof circulation records including loan
(c). Generation and maintenance of lists and records of many types including library catalogue,acquisition

Let me know what it has or can do for you. Dr Chinwe. 
Who are you

WHATIS THE RELEVANCE OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION AND TECHNOLOGY TO THE LIBRARIANS?

There no posting here. let have your input here and publish it . Dr Chinwe

BENEFITS OF ICT

AN ASSIGNMENT ON WHAT I CAN MAKE OUT FROM ICT AS A STUDENT

  BY
 

IDOKO FLORENCE AWELE
 

REGISTRATION NO: 2009636010P
 

SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARMENT OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
 

COURSE CODE LIS: 611
 

NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY, AKWA
                                   

                                     LECTURER DR. C.ANUNOBI                                           

                                              
                                                             INTRODUCTION
       Information and communication technology is concerned with the technology used in information handling processing, storing and disseminating information. The use of computers and communication technologies in information handling and processing has arisen because of the increased workload involved in copying with information explosion in order to keep pace with handling the increasing number of information carriers, computers are utilize to handle information processing with greater speed and accuracy than manual processing.
                                 The benefits of ICT are as follows:

• Enables greater learner autonomy:The use of ICT enables greater learner autonomy that is gives leaner freedom to learn without be controlled.
• Unlocks hidden potential for those with communication difficulties: The use of ICT unlocks hidden potential for those with communication  difficulties.
• Enables students to demonstrate achievement in ways which might not be possible with traditional methods: the use of ICT brings about a lot of achievement which might be difficult to achieve through the use of traditional methods when books are catalogued traditionally it is often difficult to access and retrieve but when they are done through the use  of computers they can be easily retrieved.
• Enables tasks to be tailored to suit individual skills and ability
• Computers can improve independent access for students to education.
• Student with special educational needs are able to accomplish tasks working at their own pace :ICT gives opportunity to people with special educational need to carry out specific task without difficult and at their own pace.
• Visually impaired students using the internet can access information alongside their sighted peers.
• Student with profound and multiple learning difficulties can communicate more easily.
• Student using voice communication aids gain confidence and social credibility at school and in their communities.
• Reduces isolation for Students in other university by enabling them to communicate electronically with other students in other university.
• Supports reflection on professional practice via online communication.
• Improved skills for staff and a greater understanding of access technology used by students :ICT improves staff skill this makes it possible for them to pass knowledge easily to students and increases  the understanding of students.
• Enhances professional development and the effectiveness of the use of ICTs with students through collaboration with peers.
• Materials already in electronic form (for example, from the Internet) are more easily adapted into accessible resources such as large print or Braille.
• ICT brings about access enormous amounts of information quickly.
• Special needs, both remedial and extension, can be offered during the same lesson.
• Course material can be offered simultaneously in different languages.
• Academic courses can be offered asynchronously.
• ICT can offer simulations where the student can experiment by changing the variables.
• ICT offers a host of different tools to demonstrate learning suitable for divergent and different intelligences.
• Young students have readily accepted the technology.
• ICT can, via multimedia, improve the richness of the learning experience;
• ICT can track a students progress and proficiency at certain skills.
• They allow the teacher to focus on process rather than product.
• Diagnostic tools allow the teacher to identify learning trends and problems.
• Student work, created electronically, lends itself to Internet publishing and the creation of student portfolio work.                                                                                               

                       REFERENCES

Aina, L.O. (2004) Library and Information Science Text for Africa: Ibadan,301p.
Aina, L.O (2002) Research in Information Science: An perspective: Ibadan: Stirling-Horden.
Hutchinson, E. and Sawyer, S.C. (2000) Computers, Communications Information: A user’s Introduction core version.7th edition .Boston:Irwin MC Graw-Hill

What I can make out of course 611- Information and communication Technology

NAME:                ONWUMBIKO  JOY
COURSE CODE: LIS 611
COURSE TITLE: INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION
                             TECHNOLOGY
LECTURER: DR. ANUNOBI

                                                      
Gill(2000) as cited by Okorie defined Information and communication Technology as the modern science of gathering,storing,manipulating,processing and communicating desired types of information in a specific environment. Information and Communication Technology in all its forms-Intrnet, E-mail, World Wide Web(WWW), CD-ROM, and so on has created opportunities for storing, organising,accessing, and diseminating knowledge(Oriito,2005).
Therefore,  Information and Communication Technology Course is very beneficial to me in two ways-as a student and as a librarian.

• As a Student

ICT replaced Ignorance with Knowledge
Before now passing assignment on Net would not have been possible if not for Information and Communication Technology. The traditional way is to write and pass in the class but with the introduction of ICT Course I am able to learn how to use the blog. 

• Personal Confidence is gained

At this age of Information and Technology, it is so disgusting when things like the hardware,software,websites etc are discussed and one do not understand what is been discussed not to talk of making an input,the course has brought a change. Today I can confidently participate effectively when issues of that nature comes up and can even initiate the topic.

• Search for Information is made easier

This course had given me the opportunity to source information outside the four walls of the Libraries. Search is now extended to the Internet which has a lot of information from which information need can be met.search can be done at night when the library has closed for the day.The problem of not allowing users to take materias home is reduced because one can source information from home without hindrance..Bibliographic access has made searching less stressful as it helps one obtain information at a considerable time.

• Shyness is overcome

Students that feel shy to ask question in class can easily do so through the Net.

• As a librarian

According to Anunobi C and Nwabueze A (2010) Librarians need more than traditional skill to operate in this communication age,basic computer knowledge and the ability to use any library software for pfofessional proficency is needed because these operations and services are designed by the software engineers,librarians therefore needs this professional skills and basic computer literacy to be abli to render services through locally network stations.
Cooperative and Centralization of services are made possible by the Information and C ommunication Technology thereby given the librarian the opportunity of sharing recoeds and building if conceptum through shared responsibilities.Dahl, B and  Spatti(2006) as cited by Anunobi categorically stated that for a librarian to fit into the digital environment which is the inthing now and for him to avoid being left out by the bandwagon it is important that librarians should be flexible and be willing to take risks. Kreitz(1996) seem to support the above assertion when he opined that librarians should learn and use their knowledge and experience to create better opportunities of linking researchers with a variety of information sources,develop database to meet the needs of their academic community and others around them.
Eke,H Orji,D and Okorie,A (2010)listed the role of librarians as the ability to embrace change which is the only thing that is constant,comfort in the on-line medium is another role that cannot be ignored,these days there are lots of online resources waiting to be accessed and librarians need to help patrons locate these materials and also be able to sort out problems encoutered by users in their bid to find information and not be afraid to learn new technologies rather embrace it.
All these points to the fact that learning of Information and Communication Technology is very crucial to librarians



References

Anunobi, C ana Nwabueze, A(2010) Migrating from the Traditional to the Digital Library Envir$onment:whither Nigerian Information Professionals. a paper presented at a sumit at the University of Nigeria Nsukka.

Eke, H, Orji,D and Okorie, A (2010) Quickies for 21st century librarian. a paper presented at the University of Nigeria  Nsukka Sumit-May 2010.

Okore, A (2010) Demographic and Socio economic factors as determinants of Information and Communication Technology use for scholarly communications in Nigerian Universities  



  

WHAT IS THE RELEVANCE OF ICT TO LIBRARIAN?

WHAT IS THE RELEVANCE OF ICT TO LIBRARIAN?




BY



ARINZE, FRANCISCA N.



INTRODUCTION



With the present day advances and developments in information technology, creating computer-based information networks offers the most effective opportunities for realizing resource-sharing goals. Information technology has become a powerful catalyst for greatly enhanced resource sharing among libraries. Computers, telecommunication facilities and related technologies are applied for speedy transmission of vast amount of information over long distances. This involves connecting two or more computer data based through telecommunication channels.

This development has transformed resource sharing activities particularly in the developed economies. Instead of isolated library units, the opportunity is offered for the existence of networks of libraries. When two or more libraries engage formally in a common pattern of computer-based information exchange through the telecommunication links for some functionally inter-dependent purpose, we have a computer-based library network. This means that access to appropriate databases is more important than the elusive pursuit of comprehensiveness of the physical ownership of documents.

BENEFITS OF ICT TO LIBRARY

One of the benefits of information communication technology to the library is housekeeping functions such as Acquisition, cataloguing, circulation, and serials.

Acquisitions

The Acquisition section is concerned with the selection and acquisition of books and other materials by purchase, gifts, exchange and other means. Records can be kept using the computer and for other things like performance analysis of the various book dealers being patronized by the library Computer can help in fund control as well as in generation and dissemination of reports. Lists of items required can be printed as well as accession list.

Cataloguing

This involves the preparation of cataloguing entries and other processes connected with the maintenance of the catalogue. The cataloguing section can facilitate the following establishment and maintenance of catalogue database, names, authority files, subject files and local authority lists, online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC).

Inventory control, establishment of shelf list control, removes record, added copy control and inventory statistics.

Circulation

The computer can manage the process of lending and locating the library’s books, documents and other collections, user’s records and give instant status information about loan items.

Computer offer output generation, customizable reports and notices for overdue items, reservations, usage statistics and preparation of printed circulation lists. This is a very valuable service for library management.

Serials

This section handles publication issued in successive part at regular and irregular intervals. Some of the functions of selection, ordering, receipt, accession and renewal of subscription are performed here by the computer. Computer facilitates subscription control, procurement procedures, order preparation, fund analysis and accounting.

Computer also creates output generation and dissemination, preparation of small holdings, accession list as well as union lists. Information storage and retrieval, which entails SDI Services. It also generate data on delayed items and file reason for such delays, the computer can generate reminders or notices to publishers at specified intervals for items subscribed to or ordered which fail to arrive at expected periods. The system not only records serial subscription but also make it possible for individual issues received to be recorded as they are received.

Creating of New Services

With computers, libraries can offer a series of new services where there is need for such services. These services can include recent accession list, listing of the library holding in a special way, current awareness services e.g. selective dissemination of information, current contents.

Speed

Computer helps to process information very fast. The speed with which computers perform their work approximates the speed of light. In libraries, such routine duties as circulation control, listing of serials holding, acquisition and cataloguing are performed faster than by traditional manual methods. Importantly, if the processing rules are standardized, computerization increases accuracy and detects error in stored information. The library user benefits by getting what he wants to read without having to wait too long.

Improved Performance

When the clerical routines in the library are performed by computers, librarians will have more time to formulated policies and take management decisions. This in turn will lead to improved planning and also to equitable distribution of work load.

Permanent Storage of Information

Computers have the advantage of storing information permanently. This reduces the amount of time spent in keeping records and also helps to combat space problems. With computer storage facilities, records can be kept for a long time and protected from unforeseen circumstances. If for instance there is an outbreak of fire and the physical records are destroyed, such records can be reproduced from the computer.

In conclusion, Information communication network is a major mechanism for information transfer in the contemporary world. It is also one of the useful tools in the libraries for data collection, storage, processing and output.

























REFERENCES



Anyakoha, M. W.(2005).”Information Communication Technology(ICT) in Libraries”. Coal City Libraries, vol.2 (1 & 2) 2 -12.



American Library Association (1983) The ALA Glossary of Library and Information Science. Chicago: ALA P.183.



Edoka, B. E. (2000) Introduction to Library science.



Imeremba, D. U. (2007). “Foundation of Information System Automation and Record Management.

WHAT IS THE RELEVANCE OF ICT TO THE LIBRARIANS

WHAT IS THE RELEVANCE OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY TO THE LIBRARIANS?




BY



ONUORAH, MERCY



Information Communication Technology is increasingly becoming the trend in the information world, whether it is alone at interpersonal level, that is, among groups of persons sharing more or less the same circumstance or at the institutional level that is among organizations sharing more or less the same activities. Information Communication Technology is exerting tremendous impact in information acquisition and utilization. This has become even more imperative because many libraries and corporate organizations that acquire and utilize information do not operate within the same social, economic, functional, residential and infrastructural conditions.

They therefore need to cooperate to share whatever information they acquire in such a way as to drive maximum benefit at lesser cost without compromising autonomy, efficiency and accuracy.

The internet which is today the most sophisticated and modern way of interactive communication technology, has offered global access to all kinds of information generation and sharing across the word, thus reducing the world to a global village. Through the internet, librarians can record, access, search and retrieve information anywhere in thy world in minutes (Awake, July 22, 1997). However communication technology exists in all kinds of human environment no matter how rudimentary and unsophisticated.

Definition of ICT

At present there is no clearly defined and well understood filed of information communication technology (ICT). This is because the universality of information process, the number of sciences, technologies and disciplines from which it draws and variety of backgrounds of those concerned with them (Ebijuwa, 2005). Ebijiuwa (2005) defined ICT as tools used for collection, processing, storage, transmission and dissemination of information. To Anyakoha (2005) ICT is the electronic means of capturing, processing, storing and disseminating information. American Library Association (ALA, 1983), defined Information Technology (IT) as the application of computers and other technology to the acquisition, organization, storage, retrieval and dissemination of information. Computers are used to process and store data, while telecommunication technology provides information communication gadgets, which make it possible for users to access database and link with other computers at different workstations.

ICT RELEVANCE TO LIBRARIANS

Today, there is exponential growth in knowledge and information. It has been the traditional responsibility of Librarians to collect, organizes, preserve, and retrieve records of human achievements. With advances in information and communication technologies electronic information in form of electronic books, electronic journals and internet has launched the world into an information era. No institution or organization can still rely on traditional printed information to perform effectively and efficiently. To librarians, information communication technology is a big development that provides tools for managing avalanche of information generated by modern society.

Information Communication Technology provides libraries with capabilities for location of information storage and retrieval of information and dissemination of information. Internet access enables librarians to locate information stored in other computers around the world. With online search facilities, information stored at different locations of the library can be retrieved. With web pages, e-mail and CD-ROM, librarians disseminate information. The digitization of library information resources, which converts print resources to electronic form, information can be accessed from anywhere at homes, offices or workstations connected to the internet easily. Information communication opens up the door of information to all libraries according to their need, sophistication and available facilities. Information technology offer librarians even government greater opportunities to information processing, acquisition, transfer and utilization. It encourages improvement in the existing service, speedier transfer of information, improved management effectiveness and increased staff productivity (Martin and Cullen, 1991).

Information Communication has been very helpful especially among librarians, researchers and academics who have to depend to a large extent on electronic communication instead of the traditional model. Electronic networks offers librarians, researchers and lecturers a wide range of opportunities in the creation, processing, transmission and dissemination of research information, collaboration in research projects, co-authorship of research papers at shortest possible time.

On the professional aspect of the librarian, computers are used to automate manual functions. Acquisition, cataloguing, circulation, serials control are now automated with many library softwares available in the markets. Online Public Access (OPAC) is replacing the card catalogue. All these make information services faster, more efficient and effect.

Conclusion

Information Communication Technology reduces the cost of information dissemination and acquisition in terms of labour and time. The efficacy of its efficiency and effectiveness, and the accuracy of its operation is reassuring. Reducing the world to a global village, ICT reinforces the global flow of research and development of information unhindered. The relevance of ICT to the librarian are many. Among them are ease of availability, accuracy of facts, reliability and less expensive in information acquisition.

























REFERENCES



American Librarian Association (1983). The ALA Glossary of Library and Information Science, Chicago: ALA P.183



Anaehobi, E. S.(2006). “Availability of Information Communication Technology (ICT) Facilities in Academic Libraries in Anambra State”. A Compendium of papers presented at the Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Library Association, Anambra State Chapter held at St. Paul’s University College, Awka.



Anyakoha, M. W. (2005). “Information Communication Technology (ICT) in Library Services”. Coal City Libraries Vol.2 (1 and 2) 2-12.



Ebijuwa, A.S. (2005). “Communication Technology in the University Libraries: The Nigerian Experience”. Communiqué. Journal of Library and Information Science. Vol. 7 (1 & 2) 23-30.



National Commission for Colleges of Education (2006).”Formation of a Consortium for Colleges of Education Libraries in Nigeria”. Paper presented at Annual Meeting of Committee of College Librarians in Nigeria at College of Education, Akwanga, 13th- 17th February.

WHAT I CAN MAKE OUT OF ICT AS A LIBRARIAN.

Written by
IMUERO,Patience Erero

Department of Library and Information Science.
Nnmadi Azikiwe University,
Akwa,
Anambra State.

MEANING OF ICT?

Information and communications technologies (ICTs) is an umbrella term this is currently used to refer to a wide range of services (telephony? fax, internet), applications (such as distance education and management
information systems), and technologies (anything from ‘old technologies’
such as television to ‘new technologies’ such as cellular phones), using
various types of equipment and software, often running over telecoms networks.

The ICT (or information, or communications, or microprocessor) revolution is radically averting the way we share information about development issues; and governments, NGOs, businesses, institutions, and individuals have jumped on the bandwagon to make ICT part of them.

Information Communications Technologies (ICT) are technologies that enable society to create, collect, consolidate, communicate, manage and process information in multimedia and various digital formats for different purposes i.e. computing and telecommunications technologies like the personal computer, CD-ROM, cable TV, cellular phones and the
Internet.



Importance of ICT to the Librarian.

The duties of the Librarian are enormous and the use of ICT reduces duplication of work and helps to handle this era of information explosion,
This makes it less monotonous and burdensome.

2. ICT often modifies librarians’ roles in various ways, also librarians as administrators of libraries need ICT to enable them carry out their duties efficiently and effectively and have good information service delivery.






3.ICT makes information creation in digital format possible in the library and the shift from print to digital information has a high impact on libraries, information center and other institutions directly involved in processing information. This shift is generally attributed to the merging of computing,
telecommunications technologies and other industries. Computers have permeated society because of their ability to perform high volume error-free repetitive tasks at speeds much faster than human beings, while recent and
emerging developments in the area of computing; telecommunications, networking and resource sharing made access to information anytime, anywhere possible.

ICT makes online access and file transfer possible for the librarians and other information agencies.

ICT makes networking and sharing of information resources possible for the librarian. The library willbe networked,be stocked with a core collection that is multimediahave access to global information become digital,become virtual. Libraries now and in the future will be quite different from the traditional libraries that we know today. We may still see books and other printed materials within the vicinity but many materials will be available and accessible in electronic format. These resources can be easily accessed and shared through LANs (local area networks) and WANs (wide area networks), of which the best example is the Internet.
Most of the collections will be in multimedia and various digital formats.

6. ICT helps the librarian develop collections that will not be only limited to what is inside the libraries since access to information globally is readily available. Eventually, digital libraries will become common and most of the resources will be digitized and available to anyone, anytime, anywhere. There is even a prediction of virtual libraries wherein all information resources and the library itself will no longer exist physically but will exist digitally in the virtual world.







ICT help librarians to establish easy rapport with user’s therebyincreasing the level of technology literacy of library clientele. Users are exposed to different applications of technology in their life, users nowadays are more adept at its use and are expecting to have access to it in their times of need. In libraries, users that are knowledgeable in using computers and the Internet for their research demand nothing less than a computer with Internet access.


8. ICT calls for theneed for continuous learning in the context of rapidly changing information technology. The emergence of powerful technologies, vast amounts of information in multimedia and other digital formats, more technologically proficient users, and the widening "digital gap" means that libraries and librarians in particular are faced with the great challenge of dealing with this information revolution.

Furthermore, the recent developments in the capability of computers to store, locate, retrieve and transfer huge amounts of digital data at high speed have contributed to the evolution of an information-based society. Libraries must respond to this development in order to remain relevant and important to the society they aim to serve.
However, libraries and librarians must first educate and equip themselves with the necessary knowledge and skills before they can deal with these enormous challenges.

Conclusion
Libraries and librarians must cope with the demands of an information society. Librarians must have the knowledge, skills and tools in handling digital information to be efficient creators, collectors, consolidators and communicators of information. Librarians with the knowledge, skills and tools required of information professionals in an information society will constitute the key success factor in enabling the library to perform its role as an information support system for society.







Technology alone is not the solution to efficient and effective information delivery, although it is the major contributor to the development of multimedia information and networks. The basic library education acquired in school is more important than the tools but the tools will make information creation, acquisition, consolidation and communication more efficient. ICT are powerful tools that can only be used effectively if the users, administrators, librarians, and patrons in this case - have acquired adequate knowledge and skills and a certain level of competency according to their needs.

REFERENCE

OECD, “Measuring the ICT Sector”, Information Society, Paris, forthcoming.

OECD, “Science, Technology and Industry Scoreboard, Towards a Knowledge-Based Economy”, Science and Innovation, Paris, 2001.

Jorgenson, D.W., “Information Technology and the U.S. Economy”, American Economic Review, vol. 91, No 1, March 2001, pp.1-32.


Please let me know from your own experience what it has done for you. Dr Chinwe

what can we make out of ICT in Library and Information Science courses?

Written by


IHRIEROMA, CORDELIA OMONIGHO

REG NO.2009636007f

Department of library and information science

Faculty of Education

Nnamdi Azikiwe University,

Awka, Anambra State.



According to Ania (2004), information technology (IT) is an omnibus term that combines computer and telecommunication technology; hence it is sometimes called information and communication technology (ICT). Information and communication technology is concerned with the technology used in handling, acquiring, processing, storing and disseminating information.

Knowledge of ICT will enable Library and Information Scientist to;

Manage and administer the library

Librarians through the knowledge of ICT are in better positions to manage and administer libraries. This is made possible through the use of communication technology. The librarian can communicate to the various sections of the library or information center from his/her office and also monitor work progress.

Process library materials

Library materials can be processed using computers. Software development has made it possible to have software packages suitable for various library functions in an integrated system. There is now a wide market in computer software and systems for library applications. These cover library management and traditional library routines such as acquisitions, cataloguing, control, database management etc.
Develop On-Line Resources

Computers are used for developing on-line resources. Libraries can develope databases on-line such as bibliographic and full- text databases, On-line Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) etc accessible through the host computer or across computer networks i.e. users can search the database from remote computers or terminals interactively through a system called On-line Information Retrieval System. Users within and outside the library or organization can have access to the library’s resources.

Access On-line Resources

With the knowledge of ICT Librarians/Library and Information Scientist can access on-line resources using remote computers or terminals. Through ICT Librarians can access information both bibliographic and full –text in several million documents over a long distance.


Develop Off-Line Resources

Off-line resources used for information exchange can be developed. This method of information exchange maximizes the efficiency of poor quality of phone lines in most deve

Access Off-Line Resources

The software programs for off-line access are usually configured for specific networks and does not allow for interactive access. It only allows for file transfer from computer to computer without searching the databases or viewing information. Connection time is not prolonged as in on-line access, hence a cheaper access method.
Provide Regular Library Services to User

With ICT regular services can be provided to users. Services such as reference services, current awareness services etc can be provided on regular bases. Library users can also be exposed to the internet and other opportunities offered by ICT.

Engage in ICT Based Inter-library cooperation and Leading

ICT has enhanced capability to share resources with other libraries. The availability of bibliographic records and files on computer media makes for ease of sharing because data can be easily be downloaded or copied.

Engage in Computer Conferencing

Computer conferencing which is also referred to as Bulletin Board or Forum is a communication system that allows a group of people to share information have a conversation and send information to a host computer which act as a clearing house. It offers facilities for both audio and video conferencing. It may work either on-line or off-line. Computer conferencing which may be private or public facilitates face-to-face discussion among a group on issues of common concerns and sharing of information among members of a team.

Store Large Volume of Information

With ICT large volume of information can be stored. CD-ROM is perhaps the most impressive storage technology in the information industry today. It is an optical disc technology which can store large amount of data on metallic disc similar to audio compact discs. One CD-ROM disc can store the equivalent of 250,000 typewritten pages of A4 size paper which is equivalent to about 500 floppy discs. CD-ROMs are used to store bibliographic data, full- text numerical and visual images.

REFERNCES


Ania, L.O. (2004). Library and Information Science Text for Africa.
           Ibadan.   


Creating High Performance Organizations. Center for Leveraging
        Information for Productivity.(2000) Ibadan. 


Faboyinde E.O. (2006) The State of Information and Communication
       Technology (ICT) in selected Libraries in Lagos and Ibadan
         Metropolis. NLA 44th Annual Conference & AGM. June 18-23,
         Abuja.

WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE COURSES?

WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE COURSES?


WRITTEN BY:

NAME: IGBONWELUNDU, THEOPHILUS M.

REG NO: 2009636006P



What is ICT/Concept of ICT
With the advent of Information and Communication Technology, there has been a radical change in the library systems and its operation and services. The emerging technologies in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) challenge the traditional library operation which is based on its techniques and services and management. The New Encyclopedia Britannica (2006) defined technology as a growing range of means, processes and ideas in addition to tools and machines. Obodoeze (2004) states that technology is the application of practical, mechanical sciences to industry and commerce. It could also be regarded as technical methods, skills or knowledge. Information refers to processed data, facts and messages which may be gained as a result of a study, research or transaction, and when transmitted to a received becomes knowledge. It is used to describe mankind’s accumulated knowledge derived from all subjects, in all forms, and from all sources that would help its users to reduce the level of uncertainty. Communication on its part is the process of transmitting and receiving ideas, information and message.
Information and communication technology can be derived from the above as the set of activities which facilitate by means of electronic means, the processing, transmission and display of information- world experts. It is therefore the technologies people use to share, distribute, gather information and communicate through computers and computer networks. Information and Communication Technology represent a cluster of associated technologies defined by their functional usage in information access and communication of which the key embodiment is the internet. Information is increasingly being passed from machine to machine (computer) without human intervention. The advances of information and communication technology have incessantly invaded virtually every aspect of human endeavour. Information is the life blood of any modern knowledge.
Onwudinjo and Ifeka (2008) opined that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is the mechanism to process, store and transmit information which can be in numeric, text and graphic form and that computer application is central to this mechanism. Users are linked not just to an artifact of knowledge like books but also to knowledge itself in the form of human expertise experience.

BENEFITS OF INFORMATIOM AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
These are therefore several things that we can make out (gain from) ICT in library science courses. Professor Sam Ifidon (2002) asserts that information rules the world. This means that underlying every field of human endeavour is the need for information: no discipline can do without it. Libraries are ICT dependent. In a world where any interaction at every stratum of society has become imperative, information plays a dominant role in all facets of the interaction. Professional librarians haven been acquainted with full knowledge of ICT are better placed as custodians of information through librarian and information. Librarians know what they want. They also know how to get what they want and more importanstly privileged to know the techniques of dissemination and preservation of these information.
The study of ICT in library and information science courses presents librarians as great administrators, educators, researchers, entrepreneurs etc. Modern information and communication technology (ICT) has miniature the world into a global village. Librarians avail themselves of this golden opportunity offered by ICT by browsing the internet, visiting websites instead of wallowi in fear, ignorance and anxiety. Information thereby becomes accessible and available.
Information and information dissemination communication are highly needed in all aspects of administration and management. Librarians as administrators are availed with right information through ICT in order to make right decisions. Quality information when effectively used to support good decisions lead to good decision making and effective performance of managerial activities.
In research, Information and Communication Technology plays a vital role. ICT in library and information science courses help in reduction of duplication of efforts. It enables the professional librarian to take advantage of existing knowledge and ‘know how’ achieved elsewhere in solving his own problems without duplicating existing works.
Furthermore, the role of ICT in education and manpower development cannot be over-emphasized. Library and information services exercise profound influence on education. Online tutorials are now available even at our homes due to modern information and communication technologies. Therefore, it creates more information technology professionals through participatory trainings. One could easily find needed materials on the internet just by surfing through a particular site.
Again, the society is dependent on rapid and reliable communication.

Information and Communication Technology has allowed us to open ground breaking communication technologies that satisfy the dependence. Electronic mail (e-mail) and instant messaging (IM) have become the most reliable and fast communication devices capable of transmitting and manipulating electronic data. Through these methods ICT is bringing people closer together. ICT is mainly treasured for its cost effectiveness, time saving and space saving approach.
Conclusively, information and communication technology acquired through library and information science courses offers the librarian the opportunity of modern learning and application techniques. Competence and proficiency on ICT by librarians will keep them abreast with recent scientific development. Therefore the aims of ICT through library information courses cannot be too numerous to be underscored.


REFERENCES

Azubike, Ken. A. etal (2001) Fundamentals of Library and Information Science, Awka. Nepa; Publishers.


Edoka B.E. (2000) Introduction to Library Science. Onitsha. Palma Publishers.
Encyclopedia Britannica (2006). London: Encyclopedia Britannica Inc. 18 (21).
Ifidon Sam (1999). A guide to Reference Services. Lagos. St Michaels.
Obodoeze, F.O. (2004), Science and Technology Information: A Guide to Library users. Nimo. Dieu      Benesse.
Onwudinjo, T.U. and Okeke Ifeka (2006). The Ned for Digitalization of Law Libraries in Nigeria  Universities: A case study of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Unizik Journal of Research in Library and Information Science (2) 50-60.
Opara, Umunna (2006). Reference Sources and Services: A Foundation Text. Owerri Springfield Publishers.
Ordi, Theresa. O. (2006). Principles and Management of Library Science Kaduna. Palerd.
Unizik Journal of Research in Library and Information Science 1 (2). 2008.

WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE COURSES?

WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE COURSES?


WRITTEN BY:

NAME: IGBONWELUNDU, THEOPHILUS M.

REG NO: 2009636006P



What is ICT/Concept of ICT



With the advent of Information and Communication Technology, there has been a radical change in the library systems and its operation and services. The emerging technologies in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) challenge the traditional library operation which is based on its techniques and services and management. The New Encyclopedia Britannica (2006) defined technology as a growing range of means, processes and ideas in addition to tools and machines. Obodoeze (2004) states that technology is the application of practical, mechanical sciences to industry and commerce. It could also be regarded as technical methods, skills or knowledge. Information refers to processed data, facts and messages which may be gained as a result of a study, research or transaction, and when transmitted to a received becomes knowledge. It is used to describe mankind’s accumulated knowledge derived from all subjects, in all forms, and from all sources that would help its users to reduce the level of uncertainty. Communication on its part is the process of transmitting and receiving ideas, information and message.



Information and communication technology can be derived from the above as the set of activities which facilitate by means of electronic means, the processing, transmission and display of information- world experts. It is therefore the technologies people use to share, distribute, gather information and communicate through computers and computer networks. Information and Communication Technology represent a cluster of associated technologies defined by their functional usage in information access and communication of which the key embodiment is the internet. Information is increasingly being passed from machine to machine (computer) without human intervention. The advances of information and communication technology have incessantly invaded virtually every aspect of human endeavour. Information is the life blood of any modern knowledge.



Onwudinjo and Ifeka (2008) opined that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is the mechanism to process, store and transmit information which can be in numeric, text and graphic form and that computer application is central to this mechanism. Users are linked not just to an artifact of knowledge like books but also to knowledge itself in the form of human expertise experience.





BENEFITS OF INFORMATIOM AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY



These are therefore several things that we can make out (gain from) ICT in library science courses. Professor Sam Ifidon (2002) asserts that information rules the world. This means that underlying every field of human endeavour is the need for information: no discipline can do without it. Libraries are ICT dependent. In a world where any interaction at every stratum of society has become imperative, information plays a dominant role in all facets of the interaction. Professional librarians haven been acquainted with full knowledge of ICT are better placed as custodians of information through librarian and information. Librarians know what they want. They also know how to get what they want and more importanstly privileged to know the techniques of dissemination and preservation of these information.



The study of ICT in library and information science courses presents librarians as great administrators, educators, researchers, entrepreneurs etc. Modern information and communication technology (ICT) has miniature the world into a global village. Librarians avail themselves of this golden opportunity offered by ICT by browsing the internet, visiting websites instead of wallowi in fear, ignorance and anxiety. Information thereby becomes accessible and available.



Information and information dissemination communication are highly needed in all aspects of administration and management. Librarians as administrators are availed with right information through ICT in order to make right decisions. Quality information when effectively used to support good decisions lead to good decision making and effective performance of managerial activities.



In research, Information and Communication Technology plays a vital role. ICT in library and information science courses help in reduction of duplication of efforts. It enables the professional librarian to take advantage of existing knowledge and ‘know how’ achieved elsewhere in solving his own problems without duplicating existing works.



Furthermore, the role of ICT in education and manpower development cannot be over-emphasized. Library and information services exercise profound influence on education. Online tutorials are now available even at our homes due to modern information and communication technologies. Therefore, it creates more information technology professionals through participatory trainings. One could easily find needed materials on the internet just by surfing through a particular site.



Again, the society is dependent on rapid and reliable communication.

Information and Communication Technology has allowed us to open ground breaking communication technologies that satisfy the dependence. Electronic mail (e-mail) and instant messaging (IM) have become the most reliable and fast communication devices capable of transmitting and manipulating electronic data. Through these methods ICT is bringing people closer together. ICT is mainly treasured for its cost effectiveness, time saving and space saving approach.



Conclusively, information and communication technology acquired through library and information science courses offers the librarian the opportunity of modern learning and application techniques. Competence and proficiency on ICT by librarians will keep them abreast with recent scientific development. Therefore the aims of ICT through library information courses cannot be too numerous to be underscored.









REFERENCES

Azubike, Ken. A. etal (2001) Fundamentals of Library and Information Science, Awka. Nepa; Publishers.





Edoka B.E. (2000) Introduction to Library Science. Onitsha. Palma Publishers.



Encyclopedia Britannica (2006). London: Encyclopedia Britannica Inc. 18 (21).



Ifidon Sam (1999). A guide to Reference Services. Lagos. St Michaels.



Obodoeze, F.O. (2004), Science and Technology Information: A Guide to Library users. Nimo. Dieu Benesse.



Onwudinjo, T.U. and Okeke Ifeka (2006). The Ned for Digitalization of Law Libraries in Nigeria Universities: A case study of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Unizik Journal of Research in Library and Information Science (2) 50-60.



Opara, Umunna (2006). Reference Sources and Services: A Foundation Text. Owerri Springfield Publishers.



Ordi, Theresa. O. (2006). Principles and Management of Library Science Kaduna. Palerd.



Unizik Journal of Research in Library and Information Science 1 (2). 2008.

ICT

.WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF ICT IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE COURSE?




NAME: Anaduaka Amarachukwu Esther

REG NO: 2009636009F



ICT (Information communication Technology) captures all the latest technologies used for communication, data processing and data storage. ICT have been used to solve different problems in Library and information science courses. ICT brought about Computer based learning and teaching. This was developed to make learning more efficient and more interesting for learners and teachers.



ICT addressed the problem of quality education. If I be excused, I will say especially in library and information science courses because this is a field of study that touches other fields (in the sense that library and information science deals with the collection, processing, storage and dissemination of information in all fields of studies). Thereby making the course broad and this resulted to scarcity of materials in Library and information science field. The good news is that ICT came and conquered this weakness. Students can now have access to various information materials with the help of ICT.





Library and information science as a course, made out other benefits from ICT through the following impact it made on it’s students:





● ICT enables greater learner autonomy for Library and information science students



●ICT Unlocks hidden potential for students with communication difficulties

● ICT enables students to demonstrate achievement in ways that might not be possible with traditional methods.

● ICT Enables tasks to be tailored to suit individual student’s skills and abilities.

● ICT can improve independent access for students and further research.

● Students with special educational needs are able to accomplish tasks working at their own pace.

● Visually impaired students using the internet can access information alongside their sighted peers

● Students with profound and multiple learning difficulties can communicate more easily with the help of ICT.

● Students using voice communication aids gain confidence and social credibility at school and in their communities.

● Increased ICT confidence amongst students motivates them to use the internet at home for schoolwork and leisure interests



ICT benefits for teachers in Library and information science:

● ICT reduces isolation for teachers by enabling them to communicate electronically with colleagues thus creating good ideals for the field.

● ICT Supports reflection on professional practice via online communication.

● ICT Improves skills for teachers and a greater understanding of access technology used by students





● ICT Enhances professional development and the effectiveness of the use of ICT with students through collaboration with peers.

● With the help of ICT, Materials in electronic form (for example, from the Internet) are more easily adapted into accessible resources such as large print like encyclopaedia of Library and information science.

REFERENCES



Afrihub Universal mandatory information technology training (UMITT) Handbook: 2007



Jalloh, Brimah (1999). The potentials of the internet in information sharing. African journal of information scientist.



Oral interview.

What can we make out of ICT course in library and information science

OJIBAH OBIAGELI CHINEZE




WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF ICT COURSE



Information and Communication technology tend to apply Micro electronics-based technologies to the activities-acquisition, processing, storage, and dissemination of information – which form the essence of library service. However, the basis of ICT is simply to help us improve the way we deal with information in all areas of our lives. Information technology can have a major impact on 4(four) areas which , taken together, make up Library Service: (a) raw material (b) Operational Processes (c) Management Processes (d) Customers Interaction



(a)Raw Material- The raw material of library service is the library’s stock-a collection of physical artifacts, usually in the form of print- on – paper (books, journals, etc) including other media (sounds recordings, photographs etc). Traditional library systems are geared to identification and retrieval of these artifacts. But IT can convert all theses types of information-carrying artifacts into digital data for the purposes of storage (eg optical disc), processing (eg computing), transmission (eg data communication networks) the traditional focus on an artifacts,. Its format and its location-on library holdings, collection development, and bibliographic records – is replaced by a focus on information content and electronic access.

(a) The operational processes of libraries which involve a vast number of routine transactions (eg as books are issued, returned, reserved, become overdue etc) ideally suited to information. Circulation. Control systems, cataloguing processes, systems for the ordering and acquisition of stock and for serials control can all be automated – increasing through one ‘integrated’ computer system – in order to improve efficiency and productivity. Records are no longer duplicated and staff are saved much of the clerical drudgery needed to maintain manual paper-based library systems

(b) The management processes of planning and control can be considerably enhanced by IT. An integrated system can provide important stock management information. A distributed net work of terminals (e.g for circulation system or library catalogue) can provide an opportunity for communication by electronic mail.



In addition, basic business application software packages (word processing, spreadsheets etc) can be used in the library office, as in the any other type of organization.

(c) Information technology can change the nature of customer interaction in three ways (a) by spending up routine processes at the library counter

(b) by widening the choice of available information sources and services

(c) by making library service more accessible



• Other benefits

• Access versus ownership- internet offers opportunities to give real meaning to these terms by facilitating rapid access to information resources external to the library.

• The internet offers a potential to save money, shelf space, and library staff time while simultaneously, increasing the rapid provision of information to patrons , in effects, helping address the issue articulated by Melvil Dewey in 1877, “problem before us… is to make libraries better – their expenses less”.

• Rather than relying on the library’s own holdings, the customer can have access to remote stores of information using online or video text network



Reference

Bob Mckee. Planning library service. London: 1989, pp130-132.



Gorman G.E and MILLER R.H, Collection Management for 21st Century: A Hand book for librarians. Westport: 1997, P.31.

What can we make out of ICT Course in Library and Information Science

What can we make out of ICT in library and Information Science?

QUESTION: WHAT CAN WE MAKE OF ICT IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE?


ANSWER SUBMITTED BY IBE, PETER

REG NO: 2009636002



RELEVANCE OF I C T I N L I B RA RI E S



I C T is the abbreviation for Information and Communications Technology. The library is generally known as the store–house of knowledge. Knowledge as meant here refers to refined and assimilated information. Communication is the transmission of this knowledge from one source to another, while technology is the machinery with which this transmission of knowledge is made.

Information and Communications Technology has revolutionized library and information services. Computer – based information retrieval system such as ICT with internet facilities offer more convenient, flexible, comprehensive and by far faster retrieval services than manual information retrieval storage systems. (Achebe, 2008). The relevance of ICT to librarians and libraries can never be over- emphasized. Its numerous benefits to librarians and libraries can be summarized as shown here – under:



1. FAST PROCESSING CAPACITY: Computers, which is the vehicle on which ICT revolves, are fast in processing information. With it, the library routine operations such as circulation control, serials management, acquisition, cataloguing, which are hitherto, manually handled are performed faster and with increased accuracy and precision.

2. DATA CAPTURE: ICT ensures easy and quick conversion of retrospective records than the manual methods.

3. RESOURCE SHARING: It facilitates resource sharing between and among libraries. Resource sharing has been made easier and faster with the help of computers, and telecommunications facilities.

4. DEPENDABILITY: ICT has proved more dependable than human beings in that, it undertakes and manages large tasks without being bored unlike humans.

5. As computers perform some clerical and routine functions, librarians will have time to carry out other duties such as research, policy formulation, and other management duties, this will make for overall improvement in the performance of the library as an organization.

6. STORAGE FACILITIES: Computers have the facilities for permanent storage of information. With this development, conservation of time and space is ensured.

7. SERVICE ORIENTED: New services are offered by libraries with the help of computers. Such services are recent accessions lists, Current Awareness Services, online search services, and Selective Dissemination of Information.

8. ELECTRONIC PUBLISHING: This is possible with the availability of the Information and Communication Technology. Some journals are now published electronically, and list of library users can be published electronically during orientation, and point of use instructions in the library.

9. VALUE ADDED SERVICES: ICT permit librarians to provide value – added information services to their clienteles.

10. Librarians can acquire needed information resources for their libraries or information centers without going to the bookshops or book sale agents.

11. Knowledge and other library materials can be easily organized as internet websites provide classification database.

12. It offers assistance to Information Managers (Librarians) in providing effective reference services to their users.

13. Provision of great opportunity for fun and entertainment thereby reducing fatigue, boredom and work stress.

14. Wide access to achieve information that could be useful to various library users.

15. Fostering teamwork across wide geographical area or distance.

16. Ease of access to professionals and specialists in many fields of knowledge.

17. Quick access to regular updates on topics of interest.

18. Increased work output can be achieved with minimal number of staff.

19. ICT provides opportunity for new and enhanced services like Online inter –library use, e – mail etc.

20. ICT help to reduce cost of operations in libraries.

mlsclass: WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE

NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY

AWKA

LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

ASSIGNMENT: THE BENEFITS OF ICT IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE

NAME: OFFOR CHIMEZIE .C.

REG. NO.: 2009636001P

COURSE CODE: LIS 611

COURSE TITLE: INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES IN LIBRARIES

LECTURER: DR. ANUNOBI, .C.

DATE: 4TH JUNE, 2010

INTRODUCTION

Library is the nerve – centre of educational institutions, especially universities. It is also a crucial centre in the educational development of man at any level and more particularly so in any academic pursuit.

Libraries are agents of educational, social, economic and political changes or evolutions in the community and their doors are open to all who need them. Hence, the library has become a place entrusted with the acquisition, organization, preservation, storage, retrieval and dissemination of information in whatever formal it might appear.

It is worthy of note that the fundamental determinant of development status of any nation is her information base. Unesco (1977) asserts that “information has become an essential basis for progress of civilization and society. Lack of information and an effective means of exchanging it are now widely recognised as being limiting factors in economic and social development of people”.

Information therefore is the pivot of any meaningful development because development itself comes through decision making and planning, and without information no good decision can be taken. Decisions and plans can only be as good as the information on which they are based.

Library science as a discipline embraces the various components of library resources and operations. The discipline centres on systematic study of the principles and skills pertinent to all aspects of library operations, resources and administration.

The library resources and operations are not static. Changes in technology, user – needs, and societal changes affecting the flow of information can affect existing patterns of service. Library science therefore accommodates and indeed anticipates these development.

Library is dependent on life and change. Without the human and organizational changes that occur, the library would neither function properly nor meet its purposes.

Dr. S. R. Ranganathan formulated the five famous laws of library and information science. The fifth law – “library is a growing organism” is now being challenged by the tremendous progress of ICT and its speedy application in an all fields of library and information science.

MEANING OF ‘ICT’

The term Information Communication Technology (ICT) describes the use of computer based technology and the internet to make information and communication services available to a wide range of users. The term is used broadly to address a range of technologies, including telephones and emerging technology devices. It encompasses any medium to record information, like magnetic tape/disk, optical disks (CD/DVD), flash memory etc. Central to these is the internet, which provides the mechanism for transporting data in a number of formats including text, images, sound, and video.

The first and foremost ICT component, which can be adopted in the libraries, is the computer for library automation and to have an in-house database of library holding, in electronic form. It becomes necessary to equip the libraries to optimize the use of information. E-mail, online retrieval networking, multimedia and internet are the other important technologies, which can be used for faster access to information.

THE BENEFITS OF ICT IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE

The benefits of ICT in library situations, and or in library and information science are as outlined and discussed below:

(1) Equips the potential libraries with ICT skills.

ICTs are crucially important for sustainable development in libraries. Librarians are professional library personals. Thus the study of ICT in the discipline of librarianship is an essential approach to preparing librarians on the use of various technological devices that foster library operations.

(2) Educates a librarian to introduce and provide new services, revitalize the existing services by producing faster access to the resources, by overcoming the space and time barrier.

In a technology driven society, getting information quickly is important for both sender and receiver. ICTs have made it possible to quickly find and distribute information.

The integration of information technology (IT) redefines the general outlook about library and its methods of disseminating information. It ameliorates the challenges encountered in traditional method of library operation as it proffers better alternative methods for the collection, generation, communication, recording, management and exploitation of information. It includes those application by which information is transferred, recorded, edited, stored, manipulated or disseminated (Anyakoha 1991). With computers, librarians can offer a series of new services when there is need for them. The services may include recent accession lists, listing of the library holdings in special way, current awareness services.

(3) Enables a librarian adopt a more accurate, faster and permanent storage of information.

Computers have the ability or advantage of storing information more accurately and permanently. This reduces the length of time a librarian spends in keeping records and also help to combat space problems. Records could be kept for a long time and remain protected from some uncertain invisible circumstances, using computer storage facilities.

Most routine duties in libraries like circulation control, listing of serials holdings, acquisitions and cataloguing are usually performed faster than that of traditional or manual methods and the user benefits by getting what he wants to read without waiting for too long.

(4) Offers a librarian relevant knowledge for better management of library to improve performance, thereby improving productivity.

A librarian with ICT skills has more time to formulate policies and make management decisions when the clerical routines in the library are performed by computers. This resultantly leads to improved planning and equitable distribution of work schedule.

(5) Acquaints librarian on optimum utilization and sharing of resources among institutions thereby reducing costs.

Resource sharing is a device evolved by libraries to improve their services to users by broadening availability of information.

REFERENCES

Anyakoha, M. W. (1991): Basic Librarianship: Technologies in Information Work.

Unesco (1977) in Azubuike, K. N. (2000): Fundamentals of Library and Information Services.

mlsclass: WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE

WHAT CAN WE MAKE OUT OF ICT COURSE

NAME: CHUKWUMA NKIRUKA ADAEZE
REG. NO: 2009636008P

Information technology refers to electronic technology based on acquiring and processing information using computer.
Communication is when the computer is being connected with computer through network of computers.

BENEFITS OF ICT COURSE TO ME AS A STUDENT IN MLIS CLASS
1. Acquiring knowledge on technological way of acquiring, processing information and making it available to users.
2 Enables me to handle information in a high speed to save time.
3. In order to provide adequate service to users.
4.  Have an opportunity of offering new and enhanced service to users.
5. I will be able to introduce new services in library such as internet services, selective dissemination of information services and management information system through which I will know what is happening around me.
6 To know how to reduce cost through shared responsibilities by sharing operations such as sharing records and etc.
7. It will enable one to know how to create new product.
8. It will also enable me to change the outlook of the organization where I work.
9. To outsource customer's service.
10.In This era of information explosion in which large amount of information is beingf generated at every moment, I will use the knowledge of ICT to collect store and disseminate information with new technologies.
11. The knowledge I acquired will enable me to cope with technological advancements that are emerging very fast.
12. To meet up with the challenges of ever increasing  information.

REFERENCES
EDOKA, B.E (2000) Introduction to Library Science, Onitsha: Palms Publishing and Links Compan Limited
            P.151-158.
IGBEKA, J.U (2008) Enterprenureship in Library and Information Services, Ibadan: Stirling. Horden
            Publishers Ltd. P.S
PATIL, D.B et al (1994) Library and Information Science, Delhi: Ashish Publishing House. P. 7-8