Influence of Preservation Practices on Durability of Information Resources in State-Owned University Libraries in Rivers State

Abstract

Abstract Durability of information resources is a fundamental requirement for effective library service delivery, as it ensures that knowledge materials remain accessible, usable, and relevant over time. This study examined preservation practices and the durability of information resources in state owned university libraries in Rivers State. Two specific objectives, two research questions, and two null hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted descriptive research design. The population consisted of 85 library staff from Rivers State University Central Library and Dame Patience Jonathan Automated Library, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt. A sample size of 41 library staff was selected using the judgmental sampling technique, comprising professionals and paraprofessionals. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled Preservation Practices and Durability of Information Resources Questionnaire (PPDIRQ). Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions, while Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that there is a significant and positive relationship between digitization and housekeeping activities and the durability of information resources in state-owned university libraries in Rivers State. The study concluded that preservation practices significantly enhance the durability and accessibility of library information resources. Based on the findings, it was recommended, among others, that university management board should provide adequate funding and digital infrastructure such as scanners, servers, and digital repositories as this will support effective digitization processes and improve the durability of library collections. Keywords: Preservation, Preservation Practices, Information Resources, Durability of Information Resources, University Libraries