Research article · 2026
DIGITISATION AND EFFECTIVE DOCUMENTATION PRACTICES IN THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, OWERRI (FUTO) LIBRARY IMO STATE, NIGERIA
Abstract
Purpose: This study examined the relationship between digitisation and effective documentation practices in the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Imo State, Nigeria.
Design/Methodology/Approach: A descriptive correlational research design was adopted to describe the existing conditions of the variables and determine the relationship between them without manipulation. The population comprised 47 librarians and total enumeration was adopted because of the manageable population size. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire developed by the researcher and measured on a four-point Likert scale its reliability was established using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviation.
Findings: Findings revealed that the library had adopted digitisation practices, particularly in conversion of print materials into digital formats and the maintenance of repositories, although inadequate infrastructure and funding constrained these efforts. Documentation practices, including cataloguing, classification, metadata application, and the use of documentation tools, were found to be moderately effective in supporting resource organisation and retrieval. It further established a strong positive relationship between digitisation and effective documentation practices.
Implications: It was concluded that improved digitisation is associated with more effective documentation practices.
Originality: The study’s originality lies in its recommended increased investment in digitisation infrastructure and continuous staff training in digitisation, metadata creation, and modern documentation tools.
Keywords: Digitisation; Effective documentation practices; Information resources; University libraries; Librarians.
Keywords
Digitisation; Effective documentation practices; Information resources; University libraries; Librarians.
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