Moving into the Future: A New Vision of Library Service for the National Open University of Nigeria

Abstract

Libraries are moving beyond traditional boundaries. Functional libraries for open and distance learning should be appropriately designed to reflect “Libraries beyond libraries: Integration, Innovation and Information for All”, a theme the 77th World Library and Information Congress of IFLA General Conference and Assembly adopted in 2011. This reflects the emergence of a new wave of library services even in developing countries. Indeed, there is paradigm shift in information services and delivery and library services for ODL in Nigeria must be dovetailed into the new developments. This paper examines the strategies in employing sustainable information and communication technologies to deliver services over distance, geographical and cultural boundaries in Nigeria, determine how new skills acquisition could be achieved through incorporating online open access workshops for professional development and training. A new vision of library service for ODL in Nigeria will integrate developing and implementing extensive programmes of information literacy, using open source software for new services, designing new resources and services and developing packages and support from the perspective of learning rather than from the angle of technology and developing and operating a fully virtualized library environment for ODL delivery in Nigeria. // Paper ID: 405