IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND MANAGEMENT RESEARCH (IJSSMR )

E-ISSN 2545-5303
P-ISSN 2695-2203
VOL. 11 NO. 4 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijssmr.vol.11no4.2025.pg487.498

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The Evolving Roles of Academic Libraries in the 21st Century: Opportunities and Challenges

Emmanuel Smile George CLN, MNLA, Victor Wagwu PhD CLN, MNLA

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Abstract

s This paper examines the evolving roles of academic libraries in the 21st century: Opportunities and challenges. The objectives of the study were to identify the challenges in delivering modern library services in the 21st century and ascertain the strategies to enhance effective service delivery in the 21st century. Descriptive survey research was adopted for the study. The study population consists of 13 librarians in Ignatius Ajuru University of Education library while census sampling technique was used. The instrument was a self-structured questionnaire. The instrument was subject to face and content validity by the supervisor and two other lecturers in library and information science department. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions with a criterion mean of 2.50. The findings of the study revealed that the development of libraries in the digital era is a magical solution to meet the information needs of library users in the digital society, showing great sensitivity to the use of new technologies. It also explores new trends in providing information that librarians can use to re-establish the academic library to provide effective services. It was recommended that libraries should invest in robust technological infrastructure and stay updated with the latest advancements, libraries should integrate library systems, automated cataloging, and user- friendly interfaces to enhance accessibility and ease of use for patrons.

keywords:

Academic Libraries, 21st Century, Opportunities and Challenges

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