LIBRARY DATABANK AS A PANACEA FOR ELEARNING AND RESEARCH OUTPUT AMONG BINGHAM UNIVERSITY ACADEMIC STAFF: A CASE OF COVID-19 LOCKDOWN

Abstract

Purpose: This paper examines library databank/database as a means of enhancing eLearning and research output of academic staff of Bingham University during the Covid-19 lockdown. Design /Methodology /Approach: A descriptive survey research design was adopted in conducting the research; A structured electronic questionnaire using ’Google Form’ was employed in selected Bingham University Staff whatsapp group to obtain data from 120 respondents, out of which 102 responses were received. This gave a response rate of 85%. The data obtained were analyzed using Percentages to answer the research questions. Hence, any percentage that ranged from 50% and above was regarded as positive and accepted while below 50% was regarded as negative and rejected. Findings: The paper revealed among others that majority of the academic staff rarely have the knowledge of the various databases hosted by their library hence, the extent of use of these databases for their day to day academic work is grossly underutilized. However, ignorance of the existence of these databases was identified as a major cause for its underutilization. Implications: The primary aim and objective of a library or any information resource centre is to select, acquire, process, store and make available for users essential and relevant information resources either in physical or e-copy for easy retrieval, however, users’ knowledge of the existence of these resources is paramount and a prerequisite to its maximal utilization. Originality: The library should embark on a deliberate awareness campaign regarding the existence of the library’s databases using mediums like the university’s radio station, billboards, handbills, fliers, social media platforms such like facebook, tweeter, blogs, whatsapp, instagram, etc.