MiddleBelt Journal of Library and Information Science

A Comparative Study of Plagiarism Detection Practices Among Library and Information Science Professionals and Non-Library and Information Science Professionals: Implications for Academic Integrity

2026-01-10T11:53:35+00:00

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) focus on ethical research practices among academic professionals, including students and research scholars. Despite the burgeoning availability and utilisation of plagiarism detection software (PDS) in higher education institutions in India, there is a dearth of empirical evidence on how plagiarism-detection practices vary between LIS professionals and non-LIS professionals. The problem this study seeks to address, therefore, is the inadequate understanding of the similarities and differences in plagiarism-detection practices between LIS and non-LIS professionals in India, and the implications of these practices for academic integrity. The study examines how Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals and non-Library and Information Science (non-LIS) professionals in India, utilise and perceive plagiarism detection technologies. The goals were to examine the frequency and prevalence of using plagiarism detection software use, investigate the factors that influence their adoption, evaluate its perceived correctness, dependability, and efficacy, and compare the views of LIS and non-LIS professionals on the software. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data, using a mixed-methods approach. The findings show that there is no discernible difference in the attitudes or usage habits of LIS professionals and non-LIS professionals regarding their awareness of plagiarism detection software. Also, plagiarism detection software is gaining trust in upholding academic integrity. Reinforcement of academic ethics awareness programmes, frequent training on the use of these tools effectively, and ensuring that academicians have access to reliable plagiarism detection software.

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Industrial Revolutions and Technological Trends in Librarianship: Implications for Lis Curriculum Revisitation for Graduate Employability in Nigeria

2026-01-10T12:00:02+00:00

This paper explores the intersection of industrial revolutions and technological trends in the librarianship field, examining its reflective impact on information environments. As libraries adapt to the digital age, the necessity to re-visit library and information science (LIS) curriculum becomes apparent for improved outcomes. The paper therefore, reviews related literature on industrial revolutions and evolving technologies considering its impact on librarianship, and the implication for LIS curriculum development and graduate employability in Nigeria. The analysis encompasses recommendations for curriculum re-visitation due to disruptive technologies. Emphasis is strongly placed on the integration of courses that focus on developing proficiency in emerging technologies, training of LIS graduates on technological skills, digital literacy, and the promotion of interdisciplinary learning experiences by encouraging collaboration with computer science, engineering and business departments, to provide students with a holistic understanding of technological role in information science. The incorporation of innovative technologies in LIS curriculum, especially those that dwell more on innovation, to encourage students to explore and implement creative solutions to challenges in library and information science, is also discussed.

Use of Artificial Intelligence and Plagiarism Testing Practices among Ph.D. Students at the Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan, Nigeria

2026-01-10T12:09:11+00:00

The study investigated use of artificial intelligence (AI) and plagiarism testing practices among Ph.D. students in the Faculty of Arts of the University of Ibadan. Descriptive research design was adopted. The population for this study consists of the Ph.D. students in the Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan, Nigeria and utilised total enumeration sampling technique. Survey questionnaire was used for data collection. Descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation was used to answer research questions, while regression analysis was used to test the hypothesis at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that AI applications such as ChatGPT and Grammarly are frequently used to support a variety of academic tasks. While daily used common available tools such as Turnitin for plagiarism verification, highly advanced AI applications such as Microsoft Azure AI and TensorFlow are seldom utilised. The result (r = -.010, n = 210, df = 209, p = .8830) implies that there is no correlation between the level of use of AI and the prevalence of plagiarism. The study brings to the forefront the growing application of AI in doctoral studies and the need for having guidelines to ensure ethical application. Universities are encouraged to review their plagiarism policies regularly to reflect the realities of AI being integrated into academia.

Assessment of Information Literacy Instruction Among Academic Librarians in Federal Colleges of Education in North-West, Nigeria

2026-01-10T12:14:20+00:00

This study assessed information Literacy Instruction (ILI) among Academic Librarians in Federal Colleges of Education in North-west, Nigeria. Quantitative research method and cross-sectional survey design was adopted using total enumeration, as the entire population served as sample and were given closed ended questionnaire. A self-developed closed ended questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents who engage in teaching responsibilities. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics of frequency distribution tables, percentage, mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that insufficient faculty training and support programmes; apathy of staff and students to information literacy programmes; insufficient collaboration between librarians and staff in information literacy activities; poor awareness of academic librarians in their roles as ILI in the Colleges; inconsistent teaching styles were challenges encountered by academic librarians in teaching ILI. Based on the findings, there is need for more faculty engagement/faculty collaboration in the delivery of information literacy through symposium, workshops, seminars and that faculty and librarian collaboration should be considered as a critical component of the methodology used in supporting students' learning; as this can significantly improve the effectiveness of their ILI programmes and better equip students and faculty with the essential skills for success in the information age.

An Examination of Awareness, Utilisation, and Challenges with Artificial Intelligence in University Library Services Provision among Librarians In Kwara State, Nigeria

2026-01-10T12:20:00+00:00

This study examined the awareness, utilisation, and challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) in university library services among reference librarians in Kwara State University libraries. A descriptive survey design was employed, and data was collected from 15 reference librarians using a structured questionnaire. The findings reveal that librarians are aware of AI technologies, with 33.3% being very aware and 40.0% aware. However, the utilisation of AI technologies is still in its infancy, with chatbots being the most utilised AI technology (53.3%). The major challenges hindering AI adoption are poor internet connectivity (mean = 4.20), lack of expertise (mean = 4.13), and inadequate infrastructure (mean = 3.93). The study concludes that while there is a good level of awareness of AI among reference librarians, the utilisation of AI technologies is still limited, and several challenges need to be addressed to ensure successful AI adoption in university libraries. Recommendations include developing AI skills, providing necessary infrastructure and funding, and developing policies that support AI adoption.

Purpose and Challenges Behind Use of E-Information Notice by University Students at the Shivaji University Kolhapur, India

2026-01-10T12:23:51+00:00

This survey examined the purposes regarding the use of e-information available at different e-resources and the problems occur while accessing, searching and retrieving of the desired e-information from the bundle of e-resources specified by the postgraduate and research students of Shivaji University Kolhapur Maharashtra, India. University students constantly work on the theoretical/practical aspects in classroom and at laboratory to showcases desired learning and research outputs by consulting varied documentary and electronic sources of information. As of now students' trend lies with browsing of electronic contents to match appropriate e-information as global, anytime access and in variety of formats by surpassing the access challenges to accomplish their teaching and learning assignments. Descriptive method of research and questionnaire was applied as a data collection instrument for this study. There were 3761 university students enrolled and considered as a total population and out of this 351 university students are fixed randomly as a sampling ratio from the Krejcie-Morgan table. Accordingly, the organised and pre-tested online questionnaire was distributed to targeted sample of 351 university students from different post graduate departments of Shivaji University Kolhapur and it is found that a total of 254 university students were responded (72. 36%) to the survey. The analysis was carried out using MS excel software and presented with tables and graphs to highlights the major findings. It is observed that, out of total population under study, 90.16% university students use e-information for their academic/teaching/learning (activities) intentions, followed by the rest of the purposes. Further, 'difficulty in accessing the Internet' was the biggest challenge noted by 52.76% of surveyed students, and it hindered their use in accessing different electronic information services. While looking against the students' category wise intentions, the analysis reveals that out of thirteen defined purposes the quantum of use of e-information is higher in 7 purposes in case of Research Students, whereas it is higher in 6 purposes for Post-graduate categories of students. Further, it has been found from the analysis that, intent for use of e-information is higher in male students (31.10%) as compared to female students (20.47%). Regarding faculty wise use of e-information for different purposes, the students from Humanities Faculty (20.86%) ratio is found to be higher than the rest faculties, and the students of age group 22 to 25(20.07%) response is high among the other age groups. In this direction, the study resulted in the use of e-information for various intentions and the challenges in accessing the e-information by the university students of Shivaji University Kolhapur.

Koha Software as a Catalyst for Effective Library Automation: A Survey of the National Open University of Nigeria

2026-01-10T12:29:54+00:00

The adoption of open-source Integrated Library Systems (ILS) has gained global recognition as a cost-effective and flexible approach to automating library operations. Among these, KOHA stands out as a widely implemented platform, offering modules for cataloguing, circulation, acquisitions, serials management, and online public access catalogues (OPAC). This study examines KOHA Software as a catalyst for effective library automation at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), with emphasis on its impact, challenges, and prospects in academic library service delivery. A descriptive survey design was employed, targeting sixty-five (65) professional librarians across six (6) geopolitical zones of Nigeria. Data were collected through structured questionnaire, interview, and observation, while analysis was conducted using simple frequencies and percentages. Findings revealed that KOHA has improved access to resources, streamlined cataloguing and circulation processes, and enhanced user satisfaction through OPAC. Nonetheless, challenges such as inadequate funding, erratic power supply, staff capacity gaps, and technical maintenance difficulties hindering optimal utilisation. Despite these setbacks, the study highlights KOHA's potential in advancing NOUN's mission of quality open and distance learning, while also demonstrating its wider applicability in transforming academic libraries across Nigeria. The study concludes that KOHA has positively transformed library operations at NOUN, but sustainable impact requires continuous staff training, stronger institutional investment in ICT infrastructure, and participation in the global KOHA community. The findings provide useful insights for Nigerian and African academic libraries exploring affordable and effective automation solutions.

Assessing Level of Knowledge Sharing Among University of Ilesa Undergraduate Students

2026-01-10T12:34:58+00:00

This study investigates knowledge sharing among undergraduate students at the University of Ilesa by examining the platforms and methods they use, the factors influencing their behaviors, and their attitudes, awareness, and perceptions. It also explores the challenges hindering effective knowledge exchange. As a newly established institution in 2023, the University presents a unique setting to examine emerging knowledge-sharing practices during the formative stages of academic culture. A quantitative research design was employed, using a descriptive cross-sectional survey to collect data from a stratified random sample of 400 undergraduate students across various faculties. Structured questionnaires were used to gather data, which were analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that over 80% of students preferred digital platforms particularly WhatsApp, Telegram, and Google Docs for academic interactions. Students generally exhibited positive attitudes toward collaboration, though concerns about academic competition were noted. Recognition and appreciation were identified as strong motivators for sharing knowledge, while time constraints were not seen as major barriers. However, poor Internet access emerged as a critical infrastructural challenge, significantly hindering digital collaboration. Despite these limitations, the study indicates that a positive culture of academic knowledge sharing is developing among students. The study concludes that addressing infrastructural barriers, especially unstable internet service is essential for enhancing digital knowledge-sharing practices. The findings offer actionable insights for university administrators and policymakers to develop strategies that support collaborative learning through improved digital infrastructure and peer-to-peer engagement initiatives.

Information Literacy Skills, Library Service Quality and Engagement with Electronic Information Resources Among Undergraduates in Public Universities in Osun State, Nigeria

2026-01-10T12:41:36+00:00

Information literacy skills and library service quality are essential for students’ engagement with electronic information resources EIRs, which in turn supports academic success. Despite the growing investment in digital library resources, many undergraduates still underutilise these tools due to varying levels of information literacy and perceptions of library services. On this premise, this study investigated the influence of information literacy skills and library service quality on engagement with EIRs among undergraduates in public universities in Osun State, Nigeria. Employing a descriptive survey research design, a structured questionnaire was administered to 380 undergraduate students proportionally sampled across selected universities. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that information literacy skills significantly influenced engagement with EIRs also showing that students with stronger information literacy competencies and better perceptions of library service quality are more likely to effectively engage with electronic information resources. The study concludes that universities must strengthen both information literacy training and library service delivery to maximize the value of electronic resources. It recommends institutional strategies such as continuous information literacy programmes, enhanced library service quality initiatives, and digital resource user support systems.

Research Collaboration and Use of Artificial Intelligence Tools for Research Output among Polytechnic Lecturers in Kwara State, Nigeria

2026-01-10T12:52:12+00:00

This study investigated research collaboration and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools for research output among Polytechnic lecturers in Kwara State, Nigeria. The objectives were to assess the level of research collaboration, extent of AI tools usage, and the challenges affecting research output. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from 361 lecturers from Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, and Federal Polytechnic, Offa. A structured questionnaire served as the instrument for data collection, while data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed a moderate level of research collaboration, mainly within institutions and through digital platforms such as ResearchGate and Google Scholar, while international collaboration and joint grant applications were low. Lecturers demonstrated a high extent of AI tools usage, particularly in plagiarism detection and writing assistance. The level of research outputs was moderate, with greater engagement in conference and seminar presentations than in indexed journal publications or funded research. Major challenges identified included heavy teaching workload, limited funding, and inadequate digital infrastructure. The study concluded that research outputs among Polytechnic lecturers are moderate and recommended institutional support, digital infrastructure improvement, and AI literacy training by polytechnic management for research output.

Library Orientation, Information Literacy Skills and Research Productivity among Postgraduate Students in Private Universities, Osun State, Nigeria

2026-01-10T13:01:08+00:00

In contemporary higher education, research productivity remains a critical indicator of scholarly development and academic excellence, particularly for postgraduate students who are expected to produce rigorous and independent research. Yet, despite the expansion of library facilities and electronic resources in Nigerian private universities, many postgraduate students continue to struggle with navigating library systems, identifying credible scholarly materials, applying effective search strategies and using appropriate citation and referencing techniques. In private universities in Osun State, these challenges persist even with the availability of orientation program memes, suggesting that gaps remain in students’ mastery of essential information skills needed for quality research. This situation creates concern regarding the extent to which library orientation and information literacy competencies influence postgraduate students’ research productivity within these institutions. This study therefore examined the effect of library orientation and information literacy skills on the research productivity of postgraduate students in private universities in Osun State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, and a structured questionnaire was administered to postgraduate students across three purposively selected universities. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression techniques. The findings revealed that students demonstrated high levels of research productivity (Mean = 3.5), library orientation (Mean = 3.6), and information literacy skills (Mean = 3.7). The study concludes that strengthening library orientation program memes and integrating structured information literacy training into postgraduate curricula are imperative for enhancing research outcomes. It recommends continuous support in citation and referencing, expanded access to electronic resources and stronger collaboration between librarians and academic staff to foster a robust research culture. Top of Form.

Demographic Characteristics and Library Anxiety as Perceived Factors Affecting Library Utilisation Among Students of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, Nigeria

2026-01-10T13:10:19+00:00

Demographic characteristics and library anxiety have been observed to contribute to library utilisation among the students, particularly those in polytechnics. Knowing whether the observed problems are applicable to students of Kwara State Polytechnic underscores why this study examines demographic characteristics and library anxiety as perceived factors affecting library utilisation among students of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Descriptive survey design was adopted in this study. This study’s population is 25,703 students of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, Nigeria. Krejcie and Morgan sampling table was used to determine 377 sampling size. Questionnaire designed with Google Form was used to gather data from the respondents. From the 377 responses expected, only 293 responses were received, representing 79.11% response rate. Data collected were analysed in frequency, simple percentages and mean. On the demographic characteristics affecting library utilisation among the respondents, findings revealed a moderate level of place of residence (x? = 2.75). On the library anxiety, findings revealed students’ anxiety of not seeing relevant and up-to-date information materials in the library (????? = 2.75), not knowing the first person to meet in the library (????? = 2.70) and frustrated with searching for information in the library (????? = 2.66). This study concluded that demographic characteristics and library anxiety moderately affected library utilisation among the users of Kwara State Polytechnic Library. One of the recommendations of this study is that Kwara State Government, parents, bodies, agencies and institutions should collaborate on making libraries available in primary and secondary schools.

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

2026-01-10T13:23:31+00:00

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.

Information Awareness and Accessibility as Tools for Whistle-blowers in the Fight against Corruption among Civil Servants in Kwara State, Nigeria

2026-01-10T13:29:12+00:00

Corruption has become an epidemic disease in Nigeria, and the whistle-blowing policy has received attention. However, the high rate of corruption persists. The study investigated information awareness and accessibility as tools for whistle-blowers in the fight against corruption among civil-servants in Kwara State, Nigeria. The population of the study was 6,650 across the 16 ministries. The research was conducted on a sample of 377 civil-servants utilising a questionnaire and adopting a descriptive survey design. The statistical analysis used for the study is frequency count and percentages. Based on the collected data, the respondents have a high level of awareness of the whistle-blowing policy. Also, the study revealed that civil service rules, newspaper reports, family and friends, as well as broadcast media, were sources of information available to them. Respondents indicated that inadequate information accessibility hindered the fight against corruption. However, many respondents revealed that a whistle-blowing policy, if not made a law, may not stand the test of time. Among factors that deter many whistleblowers from revealing corrupt practices are fear of reprisals and lack of continuity in government policy. The study established that whistle-blowing policy would gain impact through effective awareness-raising and adequate access to information by citizens. Therefore, the study recommended that there must be careful structuring and institutionalisation of the whistle blowing policy to develop and enhance the capabilities of civil-servants to ensure effective functioning in the fight against corruption.

Role Modeling in Storytelling for Promoting Reading Culture of Primary School Teachers in Selected Primary Schools in Ilorin-East Local Government Area, Nigeria

2026-01-10T13:33:46+00:00

This study investigates the effectiveness of role modeling and storytelling as strategies for improving the reading culture of primary school pupils. The poor reading habit among young learners has continued to affect literacy development and overall academic performance in many primary schools. This study adopted a mixed method quasi- experimental design that combines both qualitative and quantitative approaches A multistage sampling technique was used to select four primary schools in Ilorin-east Local Government Area. The study randomly selects 30 pupils per class, their teachers and parents purposively for interview and focus group discussion. A total of 248 participants (240 pupils, and 8 teachers) were sampled for this study. The study used questionnaire, classroom observation and interview guide to gather data. To ensure validity and reliability, the instruments were reviewed by experts in literacy education and educational research. The data from the questionnaire were analysed using descriptive statistics like frequency counts and percentage tables. Also, to ensure credibility and validity of findings, triangulation method was employed. The findings revealed that primary teachers are faced with challenges like lack of motivation, large class size, lack of interesting reading materials, and inadequate teachers training on integrating role modeling and storytelling to primary curriculum. It was recommended that teachers acting as role models should apply storytelling to reading and teaching method, and pupils should be encouraged to improve reading and learning ability.

Digital Information Management Practices and Big Data Utilisation in University Libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria

2026-01-10T13:38:04+00:00

The advancement of digital technologies and the emergence of big data are transforming academic libraries globally, offering opportunities to enhance service delivery, improve accessibility, and support research and learning. This study investigated Digital Information Management (DIM) practices and the extent of big data utilisation in university libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria. Adopting a descriptive survey design, the study covered 137 professional and paraprofessional librarians across three universities, with data collected through a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that record management, digital preservation, and data storage and retrieval were effectively practiced, while compliance and risk management were relatively weak. In terms of Big Data, user feedback, collection data, and digital repositories were highly utilised, whereas library operations data and learning analytics were underutilised. The study concludes that although DIM practices and Big Data adoption are evident in Kwara State university libraries, gaps remain in advanced analytics, infrastructure, and staff competencies. It recommends capacity development, improved funding, and stronger governance frameworks to strengthen digital transformation in Nigerian academic libraries.