Assessment of Library Automation and Impact on Housekeeping in Professor Jibril Aminu Library, Federal Polytechnic Mubi

Abstract

The study on Assessment of Library Automation and Impact on Housekeeping Operations in Professor Jibril Aminu Library, Federal polytechnic Mubi. The research focused on four key objectives: the extent of automation, the software used, staff competency in utilizing automated systems, the effectiveness of automation in library management and the challenges faced in using automated library system. A survey method was employed and data was gathered through a structured questionnaire and checklist. Analysed data revealed that the library studied is partially automated, its reliance on open-source integrated library systems (ILS) like Koha and NewGEN Lib, and the staff are proficient in using automated systems. A significant portion of library processes, such as borrowing and returning books, have been automated, though some manual processes remain. Despite the positive impacts of automation on resource management and error reduction, challenges such as technical issues, financial constraints and inadequate training hinder full automation. The One-Way ANOVA test shows a significant relationship between staff competence and the effectiveness of automated library housekeeping, emphasising the need for continued professional development to fully capitalise on automation’s potential.