MANAGING PAST QUESTION PAPERS IN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES.

Abstract

The work discusses past question paper management practices in academic libraries in Imo state, namely Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO); Imo State University Owerri(IMSU);Federal Polythecnic Nekede Owerri (FPN); and,Alvan Ikoku College of Education Owerri(AICE). Visits were paid to the libraries where the Schedule officers in charge of question paper management were interviewed on the acquisition, processing,organization and use of the subject. Personal observations were also made to confirm the information provided by the interviewees. The libraries use three methods of acquisition: standing order deposit, request by the libraries and serendipity.On acquisition, past question papers are processed by some of the libraries by stamping and sorting according to the course of study and stored in files, folders and bag envelops. Some of the libraries create access through indexing. Open and close access services are being practiced in the use of past question papers. Lack of cooperation from faculty is one of the problems that hinder complete acquisition. The fragile nature of the materials and constant use pose danger to their preservaton. The libraries are also contending with theft and mutilation emanating from open access.The use of Information and Communications Technology is expected to ameliorate the rigour of acquisition while reducing the problems associated with handling.