Digital Competence and Reference Service Quality by Librarians in Private Universities, Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

As academic libraries increasingly adopt digital platforms and online service models, the digital skills of librarians have become essential to delivering high-quality, user-centered reference services. In line with this, the study investigates the influence of digital competence on effective reference services delivery among academic libraries in Ogun State private universities. The study adopted a descriptive research survey design of the correlation type. The population of the study consists of one hundred and twenty-three (123) library personnel. Total enumeration method was used for the study. The research instrument was a questionnaire adapted from various studies. Data analysis was done using inferential and descriptive statistics. The study found a high level of reference service quality (Mean = 3.31) but a moderate level of digital competence (Mean = 2.92). The test of hypotheses revealed a weak relationship between digital competence and reference service quality in academic libraries in Ogun State private universities (r = 0.212; p = 0.000). The study concludes that digital competence of librarians is essential to the overall quality of reference services in these academic libraries. It was recommended that academic libraries of private universities in Ogun State should continue to foster a culture of innovation and user-centred service delivery, incorporating continuous assessment to maintain and enhance service quality.