ASSESSMENT OF READERS’ SERVICE IN SELECTED ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN BAUCHI STATE NIGERIA
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Abstract
This study assessed readers’ service delivery in selected academic libraries in Bauchi State,
Nigeria. Four objectives guided the research: to determine the extent of efficiency in charging
and discharging systems, the quality of reference service delivery, the accessibility and
utilization of reserve book collections, and the effectiveness of shelving and shelf-reading
practices. The study adopted a survey design, with a sample of 420 respondents drawn from a
population of 12,093 registered library users using Yamane’s (1967) formula. A structured
questionnaire served as the primary instrument for data collection, and responses were
analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and percentage scores. Findings
revealed that charging and discharging processes operated at a low level of efficiency, while
reference service delivery was reported to be at a very low extent. Reserve book collections,
however, were relatively more accessible and utilized, while shelving and shelf-reading
practices were ineffective and inaccurate. The study recommends the adoption of automated
circulation systems to improve charging and discharging, proactive and user-friendly
approaches in reference services, and the introduction of consistent shelf-reading routines
supported by staff training.