Investigation into the Usage of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for Services Delivery in University libraries, Delta State

Abstract

This Research Investigated the Usage of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for   Services Delivery in University libraries, across Delta State, Nigeria. The study addresses a critical gap in understanding how technological infrastructure influences patron satisfaction in academic library environments within the Nigerian higher education context. The research employed a quantitative correlational design to systematically examine the associations between ICT service delivery and user satisfaction metrics. The study population comprised 2,155 individuals, including library staff and registered users from multiple university libraries across Delta State. Through systematic sampling procedures, 215 participants were selected, ensuring adequate representation of the target population. Data collection utilized two psychometrically validated instruments: the Provision of ICT Services Scale (PICTSS), demonstrating acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.74), and the User Satisfaction Scale (USS), exhibiting strong reliability (Cronbach's α = 0.85). Statistical analyses incorporated Pearson Product Moment Correlation coefficients to address the primary research questions, while one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was employed to test hypotheses at the α = 0.005 significance level. The findings revealed statistically significant positive correlations between ICT service provision and user satisfaction across multiple dimensions. Notably, web-based Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) services demonstrated strong positive associations with user satisfaction (r = high magnitude, p < 0.005). Similarly, digital library services and electronic document delivery (EDD) systems exhibited substantial correlations with satisfaction outcomes (both r = high, p < 0.005). These empirical findings underscore the fundamental importance of ICT infrastructure in enhancing overall library service quality and user experience. The study's implications suggest that strategic investments in technological capabilities directly contribute to improved patron satisfaction. Consequently, the researchers recommend that university library administrators prioritize comprehensive ICT infrastructure development initiatives, potentially leveraging public-private partnerships to ensure sustainable technological advancement and continued enhancement of user satisfaction metrics.