Training and Development Needs of Library Assistants in Three Academic Libraries in South-West Nigeria.

Abstract

Training and development is an important organizational responsibility. However, in many libraries, management pay only lip-service to the training of their staff especially, the library assistants. This study employed the descriptive survey design to explore the training needs of library assistants in three university libraries in South-West Nigeria, The research used questionnaire administered directly to the respondents to collect data from a sample size of 40 library assistants in the three libraries. The sampling method used was random sampling, 30 out of 40 questionnaires were returned reflecting a response rate of 75%. Frequencies and percentages were used to present the result. The findings showed that most library assistants are at a transitional phase in their career path, indicating a likelihood of high turnover and loss of human capital. Libraries should endeavour to create value for the library assistant position by encouraging training/development and promotion opportunities. Training in computer skills and accessible training opportunities are some of the recommendations of this study.