Challenges of Automation and Retrospective Conversion of Data in Prof. Kenneth Dike E-Central Library: The Ways- Forward

Abstract

This study examined the challenges of automation and retrospective conversion of data in Prof. Kenneth Dike E-Central Library, Anambra State, Nigeria, and proposed practical ways forward. The research adopted a case study design. The study area covered the Awka and Onitsha branches of the library. A population of 23 librarians and ICT staff involved in library automation and retrospective conversion was studied. A structured questionnaire and an observation checklist were used for data collection. Four research questions guided the study, and data were analyzed using mean scores (benchmark 2.5). Findings revealed that available resources included computers, printers, scanners, electronic document delivery devices, institutional repository services, audiovisual devices, and email services. However, electronic journal and e-book resources were lacking. Methods employed included keying manually, Optical Character Recognition (OCR), resource database use, and editing. Methods not used included in-house conversion, outsourced in-house conversion, outsourced off-site conversion, and retrospective catalogue conversion (RCON). Major challenges identified were lack of proper planning, inadequate funding, and insufficient technology, lack of skilled staff, frequent technological changes, poor internet connectivity, and inadequate power supply. The study concluded that despite some infrastructure, significant barriers hinder full automation and retrospective conversion. Recommendations include adequate funding, continuous staff training, enhanced internet bandwidth, adoption of modern cataloguing tools (metadata, RDA), and establishing a cooperative online resource catalogue among Nigerian libraries.