Web 2.0 and Nigerian Academic Librarians

Abstract

Web 2.0 applications to library services are aimed at enhancing the provision of relevant and cost-effective information resources for quality education and research. Despite the richness of these web applications and their enormous impact on library and information services as recorded in the developed world, Nigerian academic libraries are yet to deploy and overcome the challenges of active participation in the application and use of these new technologies to library services. This paper reviewed various success stories of the Web 2.0 technologies to library and information services delivery around the world; competencies required and why Nigerian academic librarians should adopt, embrace and apply Web 2.0 to their academic library services. The paper recommended amongst others, the need for Nigerian academic libraries to take a policy decision on implementation of Web 2.0 technologies to library services; developing adequate core competencies required for librarians in Nigerian higher education institutions and a need for professional development of academic librarians.

Keywords: Librarian 2.0, Library 2.0, Nigerian Academic Librarians, Nigerian Academic Libraries, Web 2.0 for library services.