Final_Kano_Conference_Slides_Fatimah.pptx

This is a conference presentation at the KHAIRUN Library Conference 2024 in Kano State, Nigeria

1. By Fatimah Jibril Abduldayan (PhD, CLN) Department of Library and Information Science, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria A Lead P aper presented at the 1 st International Conference of the Yinka Folawiyo Library, Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu University, Kano State, Nigeria & Department of Library and Information Science, Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano , Kano State, Nigeria 13th May 2024 Changing Roles of Libraries in the Digital Age: The Past, Present and the Future

2. Presentation Outline Introduction Types of Libraries Traditional Roles of Libraries (Past) Five Laws of Library Science Technological Evolution & the Library The Fourth Industrial Revolution Emerging technologies for service delivery in the library (Present) Skills & Competencies of Librarians Challenges Library of the Future Conclusion

3. INTRODUCTION What is a library? “A library: is a collection of resources in a variety of formats that information professionals or other experts organise ; provide convenient physical, digital, bibliographic, or intellectual access to information; offer targeted services and programs to educate, inform, or entertain various audiences to stimulate individual learning and advance society as a whole." (ALA, 2010) “A library is a place of knowledge and discovery where endless possibilities exist” (LISE Network, 2024)

4. Types of Libraries Source: Bing Copilot, 10/05/2024

5. What are the traditional roles of libraries ? Promoting literacy and intellectual curiosity Bridge between the past and present Quiet reading areas and study spaces Reference assistance Interlibrary loans Access to resources and computers Traditional libraries continue to adapt while preserving their core services, ensuring that knowledge remains accessible to everyone.

6. Books Are for Use Library books are not meant to be locked away but should be actively used by patrons (open access vs closed access). Every Person His or Her Book Librarians should respect individual differences and refrain from judging readers’ choices. Every Book Its Reader All books have a place in the library, even if only a small demographic might choose to read them (inclusivity & diversity in collections and services) Save the Time of the Reader Efficiency and convenience for library users (that is, an improved user experience and personalised services). A Library Is a Growing Organism Libraries must adapt, expand and respond to changing needs, reflecting the growth of knowledge and society . Do you remember the Five Laws of Library Science?

7. The digital age In the digital age, many activities are conducted through computer technology, and vast amounts of data and information are widely accessible. It encompasses the rapid evolution of technology from analogue devices to digital innovations. The implication of the digital age can be seen from the information needs of users and the emerging library service delivery.

8. Technological Evolution The transition from the beginning of human civilisation to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) represents a remarkable journey marked by technological advancements, societal shifts, and transformative innovations. The evolving technological era also has an impact on the services that are required from libraries and librarians.

9. What are these emerging t echnologies for Service Delivery in Libraries?

10. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning models (ML) for personalized library services Emerging Technologies for Service Delivery in Libraries Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality for immersive experiences

11. IoT for smart libraries (collection management, user statistics, light control) Emerging Technologies for Service Delivery in Libraries Blockchain for secure transactions of digital assets in the library (metadata, catalogue records, licenses and access management)

12. Robotics and automation for efficient operations (e.g. Unilag Library) Emerging Technologies for Service Delivery in Libraries Cloud computing for flexible storage and computing

13. Big data analytics for informed decision-making Emerging Technologies for Service Delivery in Libraries Open access platform and infrastructure for scholarly communications

14. Social media and online communities for outreach and engagement (KHAIRUN University Library) Emerging Technologies for Service Delivery in Libraries

15. Skills & Competencies Required of Librarians Digital Literacy: Librarians must be proficient in digital technologies, including cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics. Understanding these tools enables effective management of digital resources and services. Data Management and Curation: With the abundance of data, librarians play a critical role in organising, preserving, and curating digital content. Skills related to data curation, metadata creation, and data ethics are essential. Information Retrieval and Search Optimization: Librarians should excel in helping users find relevant information efficiently. Familiarity with search algorithms, semantic search, and personalised recommendations is valuable. User- Centered Services: The focus should be on user needs. Librarians must adapt to changing user expectations, providing seamless access to information across various platforms.

16. 5. Digital Preservation and Archiving: As more content goes digital, librarians must preserve cultural heritage, scholarly works, and institutional records. Knowledge of digital preservation standards and practices is crucial. 6. Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Skills: Librarians collaborate with researchers, faculty, and other stakeholders. Interdisciplinary thinking allows them to bridge gaps and support diverse academic fields. 7. Privacy and Security Awareness: Librarians handle sensitive data. Understanding privacy laws, cybersecurity, and ethical considerations is essential. 8. Advocacy and Outreach: Librarians advocate for open access, copyright, and information literacy. Effective communication skills are vital for outreach programs. 9 . Leadership and Change Management: Librarians lead digital transformation initiatives within libraries. Change management skills help navigate transitions effectively. Skills & Competencies Required of Librarians

17. Challenges & Way Forward Changing Reading Habits : Libraries must adapt to this shift by providing digital content alongside physical books. Funding Constraints : Advocacy efforts are crucial to maintain public support and secure funding through local support (university management) and grants. User Expectations : While traditional services remain essential, libraries must also respond to real changes in people’s lives. Balancing physical and digital resources is vital for sustainable user community engagement. 4. Privacy and Security : Libraries must navigate privacy laws, cybersecurity, and ethical considerations to maintain patrons’ trust and confidence. Safeguarding user data and ensuring secure digital infrastructure are critical. 5. Equity and Inclusion : Serving underserved and vulnerable populations remains a challenge. Libraries must address language barriers, digital literacy gaps, and accessibility . Bridging the digital divide is crucial.

18. The Future is here … libraries must be brave, innovative, and adaptable to thrive in the digital age. By embracing physical and virtual realms, they continue to play a vital role in creating educated and literate communities. Librarians MUST be ready! Our role in the information age is more important than ever!

19. References ALA (2010). Definition of a Library: General Definition. Retrieved from https://libguides.ala.org/library-definition LISE Network (2024). What is a library? Retrieved from htps://www.lisedunetwork.com/library-definition-and-meaning/ Ranganathan, S. R. (1931).  The five laws of library science . Madras Library Association (Madras, India) and Edward Goldston (London, UK). Bing Copilot (2024). Conversations with Bing. May 3 rd 2024.

20. Questions & Answers? [email protected]