Evaluating the Role of Abdulkadir Kure University Minna, Library in Enhancing Research Visibility through Open Access Platforms

Abstract

This empirical study investigates the extent to which Abdulkadir Kure University Minna (AKUM) Library contributes to the enhancement of research visibility through the adoption and implementation of open access (OA) platforms. The study was motivated by the increasing global and national recognition of OA as a strategic tool for scholarly communication, particularly in improving the accessibility and impact of academic research in Nigerian universities. A descriptive survey design was employed, targeting 90 respondents comprising faculty members and librarians. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings reveal that a significant proportion of respondents (77.8%) agreed that OA platforms provided by the library increased the visibility of their research, while 86.7% believed that these initiatives have expanded the global reach of institutional outputs. Additionally, 92.2% confirmed the availability of relevant OA databases, and over 80% indicated regular usage and training support. Nonetheless, the study identified key challenges including inadequate ICT infrastructure, difficulty with self-archiving, and lack of robust institutional policy backing. The results underscore the positive impact of OA platforms on research dissemination at AKUM while highlighting the need for strategic interventions to address implementation barriers. The study recommends the establishment of a functional institutional repository, ongoing sensitization programs, and enhanced faculty library collaboration to optimize research visibility. These findings offer valuable insights for academic libraries and policymakers aiming to strengthen open access frameworks in similar institutional contexts