AWARENESS, APPLICATION AND USE OF FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION (4IR) TECHNOLOGIES IN SELECTED LIBRARIES IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

With the rapid growth in the volume of information in circulation orchestrated by the merging and increase of ICTs; many academic library professionals are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of technologies. This study examined the application of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies: Awareness and use in selected academic libraries in Ogun State, Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted for this study. A total enumeration sampling technique was employed to select 168 librarians in thirteen (13) academic libraries in Ogun State. A self-designed and close-ended questionnaire was used to gather data from the respondents. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression were used to analyze the data gathered. Findings revealed that, awareness of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies is high. The 4IR technologies that were used most are Fifth Generation (5G) Wireless, Virtual Reality, and Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) Technology. The level of usage of 4IR technologies is moderate. The major challenges associated with the application of 4IR technologies in selected academic libraries include inadequate ICT skills, inadequate funding for 4IR technologies, and inadequate staff capacity. There was a significant relationship between awareness of 4IR technologies and the application of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies (p < .05). There was a significant relationship between the use of 4IR technologies and the application of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies in selected academic libraries in Ogun State (p < .05). Based on the findings, it was recommended that academic libraries should advocate for increased financial support from government agencies, educational institutions, and private organizations to facilitate the acquisition and maintenance of advanced 4IR technologies. Regular and targeted training programs should be organized to enhance the ICT skills of library staff, equipping them with the technical expertise needed to operate and manage 4IR technologies effectively.