ASSESSING THE UTILIZATION OF INSTITUTIONAL REPOSITORIES AMONG STAFF OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH INSTITUTES IN NORTH WESTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigates the level of utilization of institutional repositories (IRs) among staff
members of agricultural research institutes in North-Western Nigeria. Employing a mixedmethods research design, data were collected from 284 staff members through structured
questionnaires, complemented by in-depth interviews with chief librarians. The findings reveal
generally low awareness and utilization of IRs, with key barriers including limited search
functionality, inadequate user training, and suboptimal repository visibility. The study further
highlights a misalignment between repository content and the strategic objectives of the
institutions, underscoring the need for systematic quality control and content curation. To
enhance repository adoption and effectiveness, the study recommends improving metadata
standards, leveraging social media and other communication channels to increase visibility,
diversifying content types, optimizing search engine discoverability, and implementing regular,
targeted training programs for staff. Overall, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of IR utilization in Nigeria and emphasizes the importance of strategic
interventions to strengthen research support, knowledge dissemination, and institutional
learning within agricultural research institutes