HARBORING WISDOM: UNDERSTANDING INFORMATION ACQUISITION AND MANAGEMENT AT THE UNIVERSITY OF UYO LIBRARY

Abstract

University libraries serve as vital catalysts for fostering effective and efficient learning, teaching, and research within the academic milieu. In this context, libraries assume a pivotal role in nurturing independent, knowledgeable graduates who are poised to contribute to an educated society. As Mohammed (2010) aptly suggests, libraries, as the driving force behind societal education, play a crucial part in the cultivation of such self-determined individuals. Notably, the acquisition of information resources is indispensable to the academic pursuits of students, lecturers, and researchers, ensuring that they successfully achieve their educational goals in a timely manner.

However, the value of information resources acquisition hinges on the effectiveness of their management. Management is the systematic process of steering an organization towards its objectives, making the most of both human and non-human resources while maintaining a clear vision of organizational goals. It encompasses several facets, including planning, staffing, reporting, and budgeting, all aimed at judiciously procuring and maintaining information resources within the library. Planning, in particular, is instrumental in determining which information resources to acquire, estimating the resources required, and formulating strategies for their effective management.

One crucial aspect of resource augmentation in university libraries is the receipt of donations and gifts, freely provided by individuals or corporate entities. These contributions are intended to enrich the library's resource base and can manifest in various forms, including printed materials such as books and journals, audio-visual assets like computers and video tapes, and even financial support. Effective management of these donations and gifts is imperative for their optimal utilization and impact.

Resource sharing, on the other hand, is a collaborative concept wherein two or more libraries form agreements to pool their resources, facilitating the exchange of information resources. These agreements typically stipulate the number of books to be shared and the specific duration for which they can be borrowed, renewed, or returned. Such cooperative initiatives are essential for ensuring the efficient and sustainable management of information resources in university libraries.

This paper delves into the critical interplay between information resources, their acquisition, and effective management within university libraries. It underscores the importance of proper planning, donations, and resource sharing in maximizing the utility of these resources for the benefit of the academic community