ABSTRACT

The dawn of information revolution is considered to be one of the marvels ofthe 20th century. The new technologies have not only transformed the shape of modem libraries but also created very many exciting possibilities and opportunities. In the last decade or so, the library and information industry has definitely experienced what can best be described as a revolution. There have been tremendous changes in the kinds and forms ofservices provided by different categories or types oflibraries in the world. Most of these changes have been a direct consequence of the introduction of computers to libraries. Since then things have never been the same for libraries and information centres, and this has been for good. The advent of computer in libraries has also brought in a new discipline into the field known as Information Technology. This has introduced new and better methods of performing certain functions in the library. For instance, - New methods of and tools for recording knowledge which include computer storage media such as magnetic tape and disc. There are also full text databases which offer machine readable directories, encyclopaedias, collections of statistical and financial data, and the storage ofthese in a machine readable form. - New methods of keeping records about activities in the library. They include computer hardware such as storage media, coupled with software for designing, creating and editing databases, spreadsheets and similar software. - Libraries now have new methods of indexing documents and information. They do this with computerized printed index creation techniques, creation of inverted or index files to facilitate rapid retrieval ofrecords. - Methods of communicating knowledge now includes: electronic mail systems used for the transmission of the text of memos, letters and large documents, Facsimile (Fax) transmission systems for transmitting “pictures” of documents down a telephone line, teleconferencing for holding conferences with the participants located at different points. Computerization has done a lot for libraries including opportunity for greater effect in rendering services. It saves stafftime and money thereby cutting expenditure on staff. This is because records held in a computer is more accurate, require less checking, is more accessible and can be used for a wider variety of activities than manual system. Libraries in the developed countries have used computers as a means of offering additional services and functions. Other by-products of computerization include: provision of statistics for management which can be used to estimate the efficiency ofa cataloguing department, ability to print overdue notices in the library. Unfortunately, due to the high cost of computerization both in terms of human and material resources, libraries in developing countries are yet to fully benefit from the spread of computer revolution. In a few cases where the computer has been acquired, there are often no persons to operate it. Again, the developed nations who are incidentally the computer manufacturers, have continued to ensure that we never come close to them in terms of computer usage. This they do by sitting constantly in XI their drawing boards, designing new types of computers. Each time they go into their manufacturing theater, the few third world countries that own computers are seen shivering because by the time they emerge from the laboratory, all the third world computer software and other accessories have been rendered obsolete and unusable. It is pertinent to point out here that these developmental changes have been noticed in all types of libraries be it, University, Public, Special or National.