Impact of Electronic Publishing in Higher Education Library Services in Nigeria

Abstract

In this fast-changing world, Academic library users seem to have less time for accumulating reading and learning materials. Reading the whole book, articles, and sourcing information traditionally has become a problem. It has become essential for library professionals to provide information to the users within the shortest possible time through electronic resources using the appropriate information and communication technologies [ICTs]. Electronic publishing has become common in knowledge acquisition and it is complimenting printed versions. Besides the web-based resources, there is also much non-network electronic publishing such as Encyclopedias/ Dictionaries/ Directories in CD Rom and DVD, technical and reference publications accessible through mobile phones and other electronic devices. This paper discusses the impact of electronic publishing on academic library services to its users. It conceptualizes the term electronic publishing, identifies the impact of electronic publishing on library services as user satisfaction, mobility and flexibility of information sources, encouraging collaborative work, maintenance and accuracy of publishing works, increased information sources in the library collection, adds value to library services, etc. The paper outlined some benefits and problems of electronic publishing in today's library services. It also discussed the findings observed. The paper is an opinion paper; it investigates the topic using observation research method and available library resources. The significance of this study shows that electronic publishing has come to stay. It will continue to complement the traditional method of library services even become more preferred and relevant in information resources and services rendered in academic libraries.