IMPACT OF BIG DATA FOR SMART LIBRARY IN KASHIM IBRAHIM LIBRARY, AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY, ZARIA, KADUNA STATE

Abstract

This study explores the awareness, use, and impact of Big Data in improving library management at

Kashim Ibrahim Library, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. As academic libraries face increasing

pressure to adapt to digital transformations, Big Data emerges as a pivotal tool for enhancing library

management, improving resource accessibility, and optimizing user experiences. The study adopts a

quantitative research method with a descriptive design to gather data from 100 librarians at the Kashim

Ibrahim Library through structured close-ended questionnaires. The study's findings reveal that while

Big Data has positively impacted decision-making, cataloging, tracking borrowing habits, and resource

accessing, a significant proportion of librarians have limited understanding, which impedes full

adoption. Results show that 48% of respondents have moderate levels of confidence in using big data

tools for library functions, 61% recognize its role in improving cataloging efficiency, and the extent in

which big data integrated with automated library systems for efficient service delivery is 36%. The

study concludes that while Big Data holds considerable promise for transforming library services, its

implementation in Kashim Ibrahim Library is still in its infancy. Targeted training, increased awareness,

institutional commitment, and strategic implementation are required for the development and full

realization of a smart library.