DIGITIZATION OF INFORMATION RESOURCES IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN NIGERIA

CHALLENGES AND THE WAY FORWARD

Abstract

Libraries all over the world are embracing the digitization of information resources to increase their relevance in this era of information explosion and knowledge management. This paper discussed the concept of digitization, digital library technology for digitization projects, and overview of digital efforts in Nigerian university libraries. Challenges to the digitization of information resources in Nigerian university libraries were highlighted. These include insufficient funding and a lack of acquisition of metadata skills by the librarians. Recommendations made include improved funding for Nigerian university libraries and constant training and retraining of librarians to acquire metadata and other digitization skills.