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ADOPTION OF CLOUD COMPUTING TECHNOLOGY FOR LIBRARY SERVICES IN THE NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA LIBRARY

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

The advent of cloud computing has significantly transformed various sectors, including education and library services. Cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing services over the internet, including storage, processing power, and software, which are accessed remotely rather than through local servers or personal computers (Srinivasan & Suresh, 2018). In academic institutions, libraries are increasingly adopting cloud computing technologies to enhance their service delivery, streamline operations, and improve access to resources. The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Library is no exception to this trend, as it seeks to leverage cloud computing to meet the demands of its vast and dispersed student population (Adetunji et al., 2019).

NOUN, established in 2002, is Nigeria's largest open and distance learning institution, with over 500,000 students enrolled in various programs (NOUN, 2021). The university's library plays a critical role in supporting the academic needs of these students, providing access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and electronic databases. However, the traditional library systems have faced challenges in meeting the demands of the large and geographically dispersed student body. These challenges include limited access to physical resources, inadequate infrastructure, and difficulties in maintaining up-to-date collections (Ugwuanyi & Izuagbe, 2020).

The adoption of cloud computing technology offers a viable solution to these challenges. By migrating library services to the cloud, NOUN Library can provide seamless access to digital resources, regardless of the students' location. Cloud-based services enable the library to offer a wide range of electronic resources, including e-books, e-journals, and digital repositories, which can be accessed by students from any location with an internet connection (Bello & Akinbode, 2020). This flexibility is particularly beneficial for NOUN's diverse student population, which includes working professionals, distance learners, and students in remote areas.

Moreover, cloud computing enhances the efficiency of library operations by reducing the need for physical infrastructure and manual processes. Library management systems hosted on the cloud allow for automated cataloging, circulation, and acquisition processes, thereby improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of library services (Ezeani, 2019). Additionally, cloud-based storage solutions provide scalable and cost-effective options for data storage, enabling the library to maintain extensive digital collections without the constraints of physical storage space (Ajiboye & Agboola, 2021).

The adoption of cloud computing in libraries is not without challenges. Issues such as data security, privacy concerns, and the need for adequate bandwidth and technical support are critical considerations in the implementation of cloud-based services (Osuigwe & Osunmakinde, 2020). Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of cloud computing for libraries, particularly in terms of enhancing access to information and improving service delivery, make it an attractive option for institutions like NOUN.

In the context of NOUN Library, the adoption of cloud computing is a strategic move to align with global trends in library services and to meet the evolving needs of its student population. As the university continues to expand its programs and student enrollment, the need for a robust and flexible library system becomes increasingly critical. Cloud computing offers a scalable solution that can support the library's growth and enhance its ability to provide high-quality services to its users (Olorunfemi & Shaba, 2018).

The relevance of this study lies in its exploration of the impact of cloud computing on library services within the context of an open and distance learning institution in Nigeria. As NOUN Library continues to transition to a cloud-based system, understanding the benefits, challenges, and implications of this shift is crucial for the successful implementation and sustainability of the initiative. This study, therefore, seeks to provide insights into the adoption process, assess the outcomes, and identify best practices that can guide other academic libraries in Nigeria and beyond in their cloud computing adoption efforts (Fagbohun et al., 2021).

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Library serves a vast and geographically dispersed student population, creating significant challenges in providing timely and effective access to resources. The traditional library system has struggled to meet these demands, leading to issues such as limited access to physical resources, outdated collections, and inefficiencies in library operations. The adoption of cloud computing technology presents a potential solution to these challenges, offering the possibility of enhanced access to digital resources, improved efficiency, and cost-effective storage solutions. However, the implementation of cloud computing in NOUN Library is still in its early stages, and there is a need to assess the impact of this technology on library services. This study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of cloud computing adoption in improving service delivery, identify the challenges encountered, and provide recommendations for optimizing the use of cloud technology in NOUN Library.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to determine the impact of cloud computing technology on the delivery of library services at the National Open University of Nigeria Library.

Specific objectives include:

To evaluate the impact of cloud computing on access to library resources for NOUN students.

To determine the effect of cloud-based systems on the efficiency of library operations.

To find out the challenges associated with the adoption of cloud computing in NOUN Library.

1.4 Research Questions

What is the impact of cloud computing on access to library resources for NOUN students?

What is the effect of cloud-based systems on the efficiency of library operations?

How does the adoption of cloud computing in NOUN Library affect the challenges faced by the library?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

Hypothesis I
H0: There is no significant impact of cloud computing on access to library resources for NOUN students.
H1: There is a significant impact of cloud computing on access to library resources for NOUN students.

Hypothesis II
H0: There is no significant effect of cloud-based systems on the efficiency of library operations.
H2: There is a significant effect of cloud-based systems on the efficiency of library operations.

Hypothesis III
H0: There is no significant impact of the adoption of cloud computing on the challenges faced by NOUN Library.
H3: There is a significant impact of the adoption of cloud computing on the challenges faced by NOUN Library.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is significant for several reasons. First, it contributes to the existing body of knowledge on the adoption of cloud computing in academic libraries, particularly in the context of open and distance learning institutions in Nigeria. By examining the case of NOUN Library, the study provides valuable insights into the benefits and challenges of implementing cloud-based systems in a large, geographically dispersed academic environment. Second, the findings of this study can serve as a guide for other academic libraries in Nigeria and similar contexts that are considering the adoption of cloud computing technology. The study highlights best practices, potential pitfalls, and strategies for optimizing the use of cloud computing in library services. Finally, the study offers practical recommendations for policymakers, library administrators, and IT professionals involved in the planning, implementation, and management of cloud-based library systems, ensuring that these systems are effectively integrated to enhance service delivery and support the academic mission of institutions like NOUN.

1.7 Scope of the Study

This study focuses on the adoption of cloud computing technology for library services at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Library. The study examines the impact of cloud computing on access to library resources, the efficiency of library operations, and the challenges associated with the adoption of this technology. The scope of the study is limited to the NOUN Library and its users, including students, faculty, and library staff. The study covers the period from the initial adoption of cloud computing technology in the library to the present, providing a comprehensive analysis of the implementation process and its outcomes.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

The study acknowledges several limitations that may affect the generalizability of its findings. First, the study is limited to a single institution, the National Open University of Nigeria, and the findings may not be fully applicable to other academic libraries with different contexts and challenges. Second, the study relies on data collected from library users and staff at NOUN, which may be subject to biases and limitations in terms of accuracy and completeness. Third, the study focuses primarily on the technical and operational aspects of cloud computing adoption, and does not explore the broader social, cultural, or ethical implications of this technology. Finally, the study is constrained by time and resource limitations, which may affect the depth and scope of the analysis.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Cloud Computing: A technology that allows users to access and store data and applications on remote servers rather than on a local computer or server. Cloud computing services are typically provided over the internet and include infrastructure, platform, and software as a service (Mell & Grance, 2018).

Library Services: The various activities, resources, and support provided by a library to its users, including access to books, journals, databases, research assistance, and information literacy training (IFLA, 2019).

National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN): Nigeria's largest open and distance learning institution, offering a wide range of academic programs to students across the country and beyond. The NOUN Library supports the academic needs of these students by providing access to a variety of resources and services (NOUN, 2021).

Efficiency: The ability to achieve desired outcomes with minimal waste of time, effort, or resources. In the context of this study, efficiency refers to the effectiveness of library operations in delivering services to users (Porter & Kramer, 2019).

Digital Resources: Electronic materials, such as e-books, e-journals, databases, and digital repositories, that are accessible online and can be used for research, study, and learning (Smith & Johnson, 2020).

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