Integrating Physical and Digital Collections: A Qualitative Study of Knowledge Organisation and Discovery in Hybrid Libraries by Librarians in Private Universities in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of web technologies on library service innovation in selected academic libraries in Nigeria, focusing on how tools such as online public access catalogues (OPACs), social media, institutional repositories, and digital reference platforms are transforming service delivery. Guided by the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theory and the Technology–Organisation–Environment (TOE) framework, the study adopted a descriptive survey design involving librarians from selected academic libraries. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed a high level of web technology adoption, with librarians reporting significant improvements in reference services, information dissemination, cataloguing processes, and user engagement. Major factors influencing adoption included perceived usefulness, organisational ICT readiness, management support, and availability of digital infrastructure. The study also identified constraints such as inadequate funding, unstable internet connectivity, limited technical skills, and insufficient policy support. The discussion aligns these findings with existing literature, emphasising that the adoption of web technologies enhances service visibility, accessibility, and efficiency. The study concluded that web technologies are catalysts for library service innovation and recommends increased institutional investment in ICT infrastructure, continuous capacity building for librarians, and policy frameworks to sustain digital transformation in Nigerian academic libraries.