MOTIVATION AND COMPETENCIES OF LIBRARIANS TOWARDS METADATA MAPPING AND AGGREGATION PRACTICES IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigated Motivation and Competencies of Librarians towards Metadata Mapping and Aggregation Practices in Federal University Libraries in Nigeria. Quantitative study approach was employed. A questionnaire was administered on a sample of 440 librarians and the data were analyzed using SPSS version 16.0 to generate descriptive statistics. Findings of the study then revealed that availability of necessary ICTs/Infrastructure, Technological Expertise, Knowledge about technology innovation, size of library's Information and Technology Resources, Training opportunities, Knowledge of existing laws about metadata mapping/aggregation,
improvement on the existing status and Good return for financial investment were factors motivating their readiness to adopt metadata mapping and aggregation practices. With regards to the extent to which the librarians acquired metadata mapping and aggregation skills, the study established that the extent to which the respondents possessed general skills to adopt metadata
mapping and aggregation practices was low. The extent to which the respondents possessed specialized skills to adopt metadata mapping and aggregation practices was also low. The study then concludes that metadata mapping and aggregation are essential practices in digital libraries, aiding in resource discovery, data interoperability, and content management. In federal university libraries in Nigeria, the role of librarians in managing these practices is crucial to ensure the accessibility and usability of digital resources. The study further recommends that university libraries should invest in regular training programs tailored to the specific needs of librarians, ensuring they are equipped with up-to-date skills in metadata mapping and aggregation. Libraries should also foster a supportive environment that encourages collaboration and the sharing of best practices among librarians. Also by providing adequate resources and recognizing the critical role of metadata practices in digital libraries, institutions can motivate librarians to engage more deeply in these tasks.