PRESERVATION AND CONSERVATION OF LIBRARY MATERIALS IN SELECTED STATE-OWNED ACADEMIC LIBRARIES OF THE 21ST CENTURY:RECENT INSIGHTS AND THE ROLE OF LIBRARIANS

Abstract

The study ascertained the availability, forms and factors causing deterioration, extent of adoption of digital preservation techniques and the hindrance to preservation of library materials in tertiary institutions' libraries in Delta State. The objective of the study determined the availability of library materials, forms of deterioration, factors that caused deterioration, preservation techniques, extent of adopotion of digital preservation techniques, extent of adoption of digital preservation techniques and the constraints to the successful implementation of preservation and conservation of library materials. The study comprised librarians and para-professional library staff. Descriptive survey was employed and questionnaire used for data collection. Results revealed that majority of the library materials available were dictionaries, encyclopedia, textbooks,periodicals, computers, CD-ROM and e-materials. Computer virus attack on sofiware and file,breakdown of ICT equipment and book mutilation were the major forms of damage on library materials. The high frequency of usage of the so limited materials, flagging library building and wear and tear were the pivotal factors causing deterioration. In response, dusting/cleaning, proper shelving,and the presence of physical security guide (i.e. porter) were mostly used to preserve the materials. Apparently, there was a remarkably low adoption of recent digital preservation techniques as it was constrained by lack of a good funding system, firm preservation and conservation policies and guidelines and poor electrical power supply. The speedy intervention of parent bodies ard library management is sought.