Influence of Institutional Support on Preservation and Conservation Practices of Information Resources by Library Personnel in University Libraries, Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

The 21st century has witnessed the influx of information in electronic format which has
increased library’s responsibility of embracing digital preservation. Failure of which is liable to
be the cause of the deterioration observed. The aim of the study is to, among several other
reasons, explore, the influence of institutional support and digital competence on preservation
and conservation practices among library personnel. The descriptive survey research design
was adopted for the study. Questionnaire with 0.73, 0.68 and 0.82 Cronbach alpha reliability
rate was used for data collection. The study population is made up of One hundred and Ninety
library personnel. The data collected was analysed using both descriptive and inferential
statistics. The study found that preservation is highly practiced (Mean = 3.4), institutional
support was found to be high (Mean = 3.1). However, the study found deficiencies in the areas
of automation/maintenances and provision of infrastructural facilities with a moderate mean
score of 2.61 and 2.3. The test of hypotheses further revealed that institutional support has
significant influence on digital preservation (Adj. R2=0.076, F (1,164)= 15.219,p =0.000b). The
study confirmed a commendable level of institutional support within academic libraries.
However, a notable gap was identified in the automation of processes and the provision of
necessary technological infrastructure. This gap represents an area where further attention and
investment are needed to fully harness the potential of digital preservation and conservation
efforts. The study recommends that Academic institutions should prioritize the preservation and
conservation of digital resources as well as physical resources.