ABSTRACT

 This study is on the application ofinformation and communication technology (ICT) in Michael Okpara University ofAgriculture, Umudike. The study was borne as a result of an identified gap in literature and also the dwindling nature of most library services. Furthermore, the study was guided by five (5) research objectives with corresponding research questions. Literature were reviewed under conceptual framework; empirical studies and summary of the reviewed related literature. Various literature reviewed showed the nature ofICT application in libraries as well as the benefits and factors affecting the application of these ICTs in the library. The study adopted a descriptive survey method. The population ofthe study is 69 library staff. The whole population was sampled and no sampling technique was used because ofthe nature ofthe study, giving rise to a system of complete census. A researcher-made questionnaire was the main instrument used for data collection. A total of 69 copies of questionnaires were distributed and fully recovered for data analysis. Data collected were analysed using frequency counts and descriptive statistics of mean scores and presented in tables. A criterion mean of2.50 was usedfor the study, as any item with mean score below 2.50 was rejected, whereas items that score a mean score of2.50 and above were accepted. Findings ofthe study showed that there are various ICT resources applied in MOUAU library, which include; laptops, internet facilities, mode, network cables, stand-alone computers, online database, printers, CD-ROM technology, photocopiers, Wide Area Network, hubs, AC adapters, e-mail, projectors, local area network, routers, DVD ROM, Internet servers, switches, tin clients, close circuit cameras, electronic white boards and scanners, whereas, Machine Readable Catalogue (MARC), telefascimile, among other ICTs. Furthermore, ICTs are applied in many areas and operations ofthe library such photocopying, registration of users, classification of books, bibliographic verification, processing of information materials, bibliographic searches, descriptive/preliminary cataloguing, etc. However, there is low extent ofapplication ofICTs in numerous areas while few areas experienced a high extent ofapplication. This low application according to the findings of the study is as a result ofsome factors and problems hindering the effective application ofICT in all the areas ofMOUAU library which may include lack of maintenance culture, inadequate number of ICT-component staff in the library, inadequate technical support, inadequate funding, among other issues. The study also revealed some strategies for enhancing application ofICT in MOUAU library which involve provision offundsfor the procurement ofICTfacilities, staffand user training on ICT use and literacy, provision ofadequate infrastructuralfacility among other remedial findings were further discussed and conclusions drawn. The limitations were outlined; recommendations were given based on the outcome of the study as well suggestion for further studies made in the study