DSpace Collection: Journal Articles

The impact of parental divorce on library utilization and academic performance of undergraduate students at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria

2026-04-30T22:18:38Z

Title: The impact of parental divorce on library utilization and academic performance of undergraduate students at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria Authors: Musa, Hussaini; Garba, Mohammed Shambo,; Jibril, Hajara; Sadiku, Khadiza Avosuahi Abstract: This study examined the impact of parental divorce on library utilization and academic performance among undergraduate students at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria. The study was guided by 4 research objectives and 4 research questions. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 210 respondents (84% response rate from 250 distributed questionnaires) using a structured questionnaire. The instrument demonstrated good reliability (Cronbach's á = 0.78). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential techniques.Findings revealed that 24.8% of respondents had divorced parents, while 13.3% came from separated families. Among affected students (n = 95), the majority experienced parental divorce between ages 6–10 years (32.6%) and 11–15 years (30.5%), with 50.5% residing with their mothers and 43.2% reporting moderate family support. Library utilization was generally low to moderate, with 39.5% of students visiting occasionally and 29.5% frequently. The primary purpose of library use was for assignments (48.6%) and research (29.0%), while 24.8% reported emotional or personal challenges limiting library use.In terms of academic performance, 41.4% of respondents reported a CGPA of 3.00–3.99, while 21.0% achieved 4.00–5.00. Additionally, 39.5% indicated that family challenges sometimes affected their studies. Mean scores showed that students sometimes experienced emotional stress (M = 2.91) and difficulty concentrating (M = 2.87), while library use as a coping strategy was moderately reported (M = 2.71). The study concludes that parental divorce has a moderate effect on students' emotional well-being and library utilization but does not significantly hinder academic performance, as many students demonstrate resilience. Institutional interventions, including counseling services and supportive library environments, are recommended to enhance student outcomes. Description: JOURNAL ARTICLE

ACADEMIC LIBRARIANS’ AWARENESS, USE, ANDETHICAL PERSPECTIVES ON GENERATIVE AI IN INFORMATION RESEARCH WITHIN NIGERIAN HIGHER EDUCATION

2026-02-05T18:10:37Z

Title: ACADEMIC LIBRARIANS’ AWARENESS, USE, ANDETHICAL PERSPECTIVES ON GENERATIVE AI IN INFORMATION RESEARCH WITHIN NIGERIAN HIGHER EDUCATION Authors: MUSA, HUSSAINI; GARBA, MOHAMMED SHAMBO; MUSA, BABA ADAMU Abstract: This study examined awareness, adoption, ethical concerns, and institutional policy adequacy regarding generative AI (GenAI) tools among academic librarians in Nigeria (N = 314). The study was guided by 6 research question and 6 research objectives. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering awareness, adoption, ethical perceptions, and policy frameworks. Results indicated high awareness of GenAI tools (M = 3.80, SD = 0.68), with familiarity and understanding of potential risks scoring highest (M = 3.99–3.95). Adoption was moderate (M = 3.33, SD = 0.72), with the highest uptake in recommending GenAI tools to users (M = 3.64) and the lowest integration into workshops (M = 2.99). Librarians expressed very high ethical concerns (M = 3.96, SD = 0.70), particularly regarding plagiarism (M = 4.10) and hallucinated content (M = 3.98). Institutional policies were perceived as inadequate (M = 2.90, SD = 1.28). Correlation analysis revealed that awareness strongly predicted adoption (r = .56, p < .001), while policy adequacy moderately reduced ethical concerns (r = –.34, p < .001). Group analyses indicated federal librarians had higher awareness (M = 3.92 vs. 3.61, p = .005) and adoption (M = 3.48 vs. 3.27, p = .036) than state librarians. The findings highlight the need for structured training, robust ethical guidelines, and comprehensive institutional AI policies to support responsible GenAI integration in academic libraries Description: JOURNAL ARTICLE

Evolving Roles and Competencies of Reference and Rsearch Libraries for Effective Services in Academic Libraries in North- Central, Nigeria

2026-02-05T12:19:43Z

Title: Evolving Roles and Competencies of Reference and Rsearch Libraries for Effective Services in Academic Libraries in North- Central, Nigeria Authors: Goshie, Bukar, I R.W.; Husaini, M Abstract: The study is on evolving roles and competencies of reference and research librarians for effective services in academic libraries in North- central Nigeria. Reference service has long been recognized as and dispensable part of the functions of a library and information system. It is provided to the users in search of information deemed appropriate to meet their information needs. The new role assumed by the reference librarians, as a result of innovations, would make it imperative for them to provide such reference services as would ensure the maximum use of resources for the benefit of the users. These innovations have deep impact on the roles, competencies, skills and knowledge of library and information professionals. The paper discussed the various competencies for reference and research librarians such as camtasia, webdesigns and libguides.The paper further enumerated and discusses the various evolving ICT tools for virtual reference services such as; chat softwares, video conferencing softwares and e-mails. The paper highlighted the challenges for the acquisition of modern skills for reference and research librarian such as: cost of internet connectivity, poor ICT infrastructure and lack of ICT skills. The paper also concluded that superb internet connectivity should be made available to allow the librarians make usage of the evolving computer- based applications available for the reference and research librarians. The study further recommended that librarians should be provided with modern infrastructures to avoid poor utilization of computer- based applications and regular training and retooling should be put in place to constantly allow the librarians to embrace new technology

School libraries and student information literacy: A study of Model Secondary School, FUT Minna, Niger State, Nigeria

2026-02-02T04:27:52Z

Title: School libraries and student information literacy: A study of Model Secondary School, FUT Minna, Niger State, Nigeria Authors: MUSA, HUSSAINI; Isa Omali, Abu; Chukwu, Patricia I. Abstract: This study investigated the role of the school libraries in fostering information literacy skills among students of Model Secondary School, Federal University of Technology (FUT) Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. The study assessed the availability and accessibility of library resources, frequency and purpose of library use, students’ self-rated information literacy levels, and the perceived support provided by the library. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 200 students using a structured questionnaire. Findings revealed that textbooks (89.0%) and fiction/storybooks (80.0%) were the most available and accessible resources, while only 17.5%of respondents reported access to internet/ICT facilities. Library usage was moderate; 32.5% of students used the library 2–3 times a week, while 14.0% reported daily use. The primary reasons for library visits were reading for assignments (55.0%) and personal study (45.0%). Students’ information literacy levels generally ranges from low to moderate. Only 15.0%rated themselves as very good at identifying information needs, 12.5% in searching for information, and 7.5% in referencing sources properly. In terms of library support, 45.0% of students agreed that staf provided research guidance, while a significant majority (82.5%) reported no digital literacy support. The study concludes that while the library moderately supports academic needs through print resources, it falls short in promoting comprehensive information literacy due to inadequate infrastructure, poor digital access, and limited instructional support. It recommends investing in ICT infrastructure, implementing structured information literacy programmes, and training library personnel to deliver ef ective user education. Description: JOURNAL ARTICLE