CAUSES OF ABSENTEEISM AND POOR PERFORMANCE OF LIBRARIANS IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN SOUTH, SOUTH NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigates the causes absenteeism and poor performance of librarians in federal university libraries South-South Nigeria. A descriptive survey method was adopted for the study. A total of one hundred and eight (108) copies of questionnaire were distributed to the librarians in the federal university libraries in South-South, Nigeria, only ninetyfive (95) were filled and returned, which was used for the study. The instrument for data collection was the questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statisticsm mean and percentage mean score of 2.5 and above and percentage score of 50% were considered as acceptable by respondents. Its major findings revealed the causes of absenteeism in libraries to lack of motivation on the job, ill health and injury, lack of interest on the job, incapacity and job related stress. The study further shows the reasons for poor performance of librarians as poor morale among colleagues, negative impact on library services, underdevelopment of the library and poor university ranking. The study also proffer solutions to curb frequent absenteeism and poor performance of librarians such as written attendance policy, motivation of staff, set clear attendance policy, rewards and recognition to librarians who work very hard. The study recommends that a written attendance policy should be well spelt out, disciplinary actions should be taken to avert future occurrence and also counseling and motivation of librarians should be carried out regularly on the importance of their jobs.