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.