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Short abstract:

This study want to know more on Academic libraries status, how they have evolved and re-event their services after the global pandemic. crisis that ravage both human and global economy for effective information service delivery in North Central, Nigeria.

Long abstract:

The pandemic crisis no doubt stirred the need for global reforms in all accept of human endeavors, today we embrace the new normal. All hands are on deck to brainstorm reengineer and reinvent services at all level to prepare for the unforeseen drawing from the lessons the global pandemic challenge wrecked on humanity. This study seeks to gain more insight into measure taking to reengineer and reinvent academic libraries from the aftermath of global pandemic crisis and for more insight in the involvement of libraries after the pandemic toward developing smart libraries for effective service delivery in Nigeria. The following objectives plot the study: mechanisms that libraries are putting in place toward developing a smart library; extent libraries are leveraging on open access for flexible service delivery; new methods of service delivery in the post-pandemic; extent to which academic libraries have evolved towards developing smart libraries for effective service delivery; determine if librarians possess the requisite skills for developing smart libraries for effective service delivery; to know if academic libraries have strategic plans laid out for enhanced services delivery; determine the issues associated with the development of smart libraries; The study will adopt a descriptive survey design. The population will cover librarians from selected academic libraries in the north central geopolitical zones of Nigeria. A questionnaire will be design to gather data for this study and the instrument will be subjected to face validation. Data collected will be analysed using descriptive statistics to report the findings of the study.

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Short abstract:

This paper examines strategies for transformative change in information services within North-Central Nigeria, focusing on innovative approaches to address evolving needs and challenges in the region's information landscape.

Long abstract:

This paper delves into information services within North-Central Nigeria, exploring strategies for transformative change amidst evolving societal, technological, and economic factors. Recognizing the pivotal role of information access and dissemination in societal progress, particularly in underserved regions, the study investigates innovative approaches to enhance information services within this context. Drawing upon a combination of qualitative research methods, including interviews, surveys, and case studies, the paper identifies key challenges faced by information service providers in North-Central Nigeria. These challenges encompass infrastructural limitations, socio-economic disparities, and technological constraints, which impede the effective delivery and utilization of information resources. In response, the paper proposes a series of strategic interventions aimed at fostering transformative change within the region's information ecosystem. These interventions include capacity building initiatives to enhance the skills and competencies of information professionals, leveraging digital technologies to expand access to information resources, and fostering collaboration between libraries, educational institutions, and community organizations to create synergistic information networks. Furthermore, the paper highlights the importance of community engagement and participatory approaches in co-creating solutions that are contextually relevant and sustainable. By empowering local communities to actively participate in the design and implementation of information services, the paper argues for a bottom-up approach that fosters ownership and ensures the long-term viability of transformative initiatives. Through this comprehensive analysis and strategic roadmap, the paper aims to inform policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders about effective strategies for catalyzing transformative change in information services within North-Central Nigeria, thereby advancing societal development and fostering inclusive access to knowledge and information.

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Short abstract:

Biblio+ turns book searching into an engaging adventure. An interactive app offers a treasure hunt in AR within the library, with markers for orientation, discovering tools, resources, and information. Main goals are to enhance library services, engage and educate users, and promote the university.

Long abstract:

The "Biblio+" project aims to improve the library experience, turning it into an engaging and intuitive adventure fostering a deeper connection between students and their academic resources.

By envisioning the library visit as a treasure hunt, students become adventurous researchers exploring the library's resources like never before. With the help of librarians and a digital treasure map app, students embark on a journey to find books, aided by augmented reality (AR) technology. The project focuses on creating interactive digital pathways within the Central Library, enhancing library services, engaging users, and promoting the university's image.

Through the development of native applications and AR technology, the project offers a multifunctional app with four main features: Augmented Reality, Videogame - Archive, Interactive Map, and Virtual Catalog. The AR function allows users to interact with markers distributed throughout the library, providing information and activating multimedia experiences.

Technologically, the project leverages mobile device cameras and specially created graphic elements (markers) to create an immersive AR experience. These markers trigger specific animations and graphics, enhancing user engagement. The app will be distributed through major app stores and optimized for various hardware devices, ensuring accessibility for all users.

By implementing modular technology and adaptable branding strategies, the project aims to evolve alongside future developments.

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Short abstract:

Examining innovation in information services at Federal University Lokoja, Nigeria, this study explores transformative strategies for enhanced access and utilization

Long abstract:

This case study investigates the cultivation of innovation within information services at Federal University Lokoja, Nigeria. In the context of a rapidly evolving information landscape, the study delves into strategies employed by the university library to enhance access, utilization, and dissemination of information resources. Through a mixed-methods approach involving surveys, interviews, and document analysis, the study assesses the current state of information services at Federal University Lokoja. It identifies challenges faced by the library, including limited resources, technological gaps, and user needs. Building upon these findings, the study explores innovative initiatives undertaken by the library to address these challenges and foster a culture of innovation. These initiatives encompass the adoption of digital technologies, the development of online platforms for resource discovery, and the implementation of user-centered services. Furthermore, the study examines the role of collaboration and partnerships in driving innovation within information services. It highlights the importance of engaging with stakeholders both within and outside the university community to leverage expertise, resources, and networks. By presenting insights from Federal University Lokoja's experience, this study contributes to the broader discourse on innovation in information services within the Nigerian higher education context. It offers valuable lessons and best practices for libraries and information professionals seeking to adapt and thrive in an increasingly digital and dynamic environment.

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Short abstract:

This study explores the impact of academic discovery tools on scientific research inquiry. it probes the differences in research outcomes that are based on bibliometric and scientometric indices, and their suppression from academic discovery tools in favor of relevancy retrieval and AI ranking.

Long abstract:

Since its inception over half a century ago, bibliometric citation indices and scientometric data have become major indicators of the quality and centrality of academic literature increasingly becoming an indispensable way of assessing and navigating relevant literature, in light of the exponential rise in the volume of scientific findings.

However, as this research indicates, academic institutions use discovery tools that suppress citations in favor of relevance metrics. Additionally, a novel newer approach based on AI algorithmic ranking utilizes item and user recommender, citation, and similarity pattern analysis to provide a third type of discovery methodology.

This paper examines the significance of discovery methods in the development of science, exploring how different methods of discovery lead to varied scientific outcomes. This paper, we analyze the alternative methods of citation metrics as the basis of scientific research.

By comparing research methodologies, we argue that the nature of scientific inquiry can be influenced as different discovery methods can lead to varying focus areas, depth of analysis, and interdisciplinary connections in research. Bibliometrics, focusing on citation analysis, prioritizes highly cited works, Relevance metrics may be biased towards current trends and longer texts. Ranking algorithms prioritize articles based on engagement or platform-specific criteria. Each method shapes the research landscape differently, influencing the direction and outcomes of scientific inquiries.

To investigate the impact of bibliometric, relevance, and ranking methodologies on scientific discovery, this study employs a mixed approach that seeks to analyze patterns and direction of scientific output and impact metrics when using the discovery tools.

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Short abstract:

User engagement builds community, encourages digital literacy, solicits input for enhancements, and promotes libraries' ongoing relevance and significance in this digital era. Therefore, there is a need to encourage user engagement in the virtual space to encourage the usage of digital libraries.

Long abstract:

With the development of the internet and computer technology, human existence has become digitalized, and online transactions are now the norm in every aspect of daily life. Libraries and other institutions have no option to adapt their services digitally in this increasingly digital environment. This has induced the development of digital libraries where digital librarian manages and offers digital resources and services to virtual users. Users of virtual space live and work in a simulated space that mimics the appearance of the real world without being constrained by time or place; they are very complex, their perceptions, information-seeking behaviors, and interactions with library services changed significantly as most of them view the internet and other electronic information sources as alternatives to libraries' virtual spaces. The scenario calls for the need for user engagement which creates a culture of lifelong learning by inspiring people to use library resources and programs to continuously seek out new information and skill improvement. Nonetheless, it has been noted that most digital librarians are unfamiliar and uncomfortable with asking users about their thoughts and ideas in the digital realm and this has had a negative impact on virtual libraries space. Since monitoring user engagement with these virtual spaces and services is, the most overlooked aspect of today's libraries this paper aims to identify the data analytics technique used by librarians to ascertain users' preferences, discuss strategies for user engagement in the virtual library, and highlight the difficulties librarians face when engaging users in the virtual space.