Awareness and Utilisation of Cloud Computing Technologies for Library Services: A Survey of Librarians in Anambra State

Abstract

This study investigated the level of awareness and extent of utilisation of cloud computing technologies for library services among librarians in tertiary institutions in Anambra State, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Area: The study was conducted in Anambra State, Nigeria. The population comprised 112 librarians from federal and state tertiary institutions. Using the Yaro Yamane formula, a sample of 88 librarians was selected. A structured 4-point Likert scale questionnaire titled "Cloud Computing Awareness and Utilisation Questionnaire (CCAUQ)" was used for data collection. Data were analysed using mean (X̄) and standard deviation to answer research questions, with a decision benchmark of 2.50, while the z-test was used to test the hypothesis at a 0.05 significance level. Extent of responses was interpreted using the following scale: Very High Extent (3.50–4.00), High Extent (2.50–3.49), Low Extent (1.50–2.49), and Very Low Extent (1.00–1.49). Findings revealed a High Extent of awareness of cloud computing concepts (aggregate mean = 2.98) but a Low Extent of utilisation (aggregate mean = 2.34) for core library services. Librarians from both federal and state institutions exhibited a Low Extent of utilisation, with federal librarians scoring marginally higher (X̄ = 2.41) than state librarians (X̄ = 2.28). Key benefits included enhanced remote access and cost reduction, both rated at a Very High Extent, while major challenges were poor internet connectivity and irregular power supply, also rated at a Very High Extent. The hypothesis test showed no significant difference between federal and state institution librarians' utilisation (z-cal = 1.24 < z-crit = 1.96). The study recommended mandatory ICT capacity-building workshops, increased funding for cloud subscriptions, and development of state-wide internet backbone for libraries.