THE ROLE OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICES IN DIGITAL ECONOMY

Abstract

This paper examines the role of library and Information services in Digital Economy. Currently, the revolutionary period of technological advancement of tools and gadgets for library and Information services characterized the 21st century and has brought prolific growth and novelty to improve information business. Employing descriptive methods, this paper explores concept of Digital Economy, the role of library and Information services using ICT for information business in Nigeria and challenges that affect the use of ICT for library and Information services in Digital Economy. Furthermore, it observes that available literature show that Digital Economy involves economic transactions that occur on the internet using digital and computing technologies to collect, store, analyze and share information that transforms social interactions and businesses. This study highlights online literature, including research articles, conference papers, e-books downloaded from various databases such as Science Direct, Emerald, and Google Scholars on the role of library and information services in Digital Economy. It affirms that library and Information services are affected by lack of computer technologies skills to engage in digital activities, poor internet connectivity, and high cost of bandwidth, lack of power supply, information insecurity and privacy of Digital Economy. The conclusion reached is that digital technologies are integral part of library and Information services that empower librarians to communicate with library users through innovative services. Therefore, it was recommended among others that Government should provide infrastructure that would support application of ICT to Information services, librarians should also avail themselves with ICT skills in a digital economy and be aware of the information needs and search behaviour of clients to provide innovative services.