Innovations and Creativity in Library Services in the 5th Industrial Revolution Era: A Case Study of College of Education Oro, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines innovations and creativity in library services in the 5th industrial revolution era college of education Oro Kwara State, Nigeria. It was investigates how the adoption of advanced technologies such as digital libraries, RFID systems, virtual reference services, maker spaces, and redesigned library learning environments impacts service quality, user satisfaction, and overall library effectiveness. The primary objective was to assess how the adoption of advanced technologies, such as digital libraries, RFID systems, and the design of library spaces, influence user satisfaction and service effectiveness. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, utilising structured questionnaire, participatory. The study identified three (3) research objectives and research questions. It adopted descriptive research design and the study population was 200 while the questionnaire was used to collect data. Stratified random sampling technique was used for the study, it was a sampling technique considered appropriate. The findings indicate that innovations, particularly in digital resource access and more efficient borrowing systems, have enhanced user satisfaction. The study further explores the transformation of education in the 5IR era, emphasizsng the need for libraries to foster critical and creative thinking skills in digitally literate graduates. Challenges such as insufficient training on new technologies and concerns over data privacy were identified as barriers to the full acceptance of these innovations. Additionally, the design of comfortable, learning supportive spaces was found to play a crucial role in improving user experiences, though further customisation is required. The study concluded that while several innovative information services such as digital library platforms, online databases, and Internet-based resources are increasingly available, the integration of advanced 5IR technologies in the College of Education, Oro remains limited. Traditional tools like journals, indexes, and abstracts are still widely relied upon, whereas more modern resources such as interactive multimedia tools, RFID systems, maker space technologies, and AI-driven services are not yet fully adopted. This indicates a gap between existing library services and the level of innovation required in the 5IR era. The study recommends, the library management should also invest in modern 5IR-aligned innovations such as smart library systems, enhanced digital repositories, and creative learning spaces to improve service efficiency, user satisfaction, and overall support for teacher education in the College of Education, Oro.