The Vice Chancellor, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Olufemi Peters, has underscored the importance of libraries as vital learning hubs for universities, calling for awareness among academics on their continued relevance.

He made the call in Abuja on Tuesday at the 112th biennial meeting of the Association of University Librarians of Nigerian Universities (AULNU).

While highlighting the crucial role of university libraries, Prof. Peters regretted that some academics remain unaware of their value in today’s academic landscape.

Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Technology, Innovation, and Research at NOUN, Prof. Godwin Akper, the Vice-Chancellor pointed out that “While my administration acknowledges the centrality of university libraries as learning resource centres, it is sad to observe that a knowledge gap still exists among some academics on the relevance of libraries in academic life of 21st century universities.

“This is evidence from comments sometimes made at different fora by a few university academics in this country, questioning the continued relevance of libraries today, given the intrusion of AI-powered research tools at the doorsteps of researchers globally.

“The theme of this year’s meeting attests to the commitment of AULNU to deploy technology for an ‘enhanced user’ Library experience. AULNU is not opposed to the use of technology but to an irresponsible use of it that does not support research, teaching, and learning. Thinking that technology replaces libraries in the university system is an injury to growth, research, and development.

“My suggestion is that this meeting will debate ways of sensitizing the academia on the continued relevance of libraries as learning resource centres, to the academic life of universities. A Library, in my opinion, does not simply means a collection of books. It is also, a place for brainstorming, group discussions, planning, a meeting point for strategic engagement, and a quiet place for career guidance in some circles, among others.

“We should, therefore, continue to build and equip libraries for the future university academic life.”

In her address of welcome, the Chairman, AULNU and Chief Librarian at the National Open University of Nigeria, Dr Angela Okpala, highlighted the importance of the summit’s theme, emphasizing the role of libraries in supporting academic excellence and bridging knowledge gaps in the digital age.

Speaking on the theme, ‘Revolutionizing University Libraries through adoption of emerging technologies for enhanced user experience’, Dr Okpala explored innovative ways to leverage cutting-edge technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, digital repositories, and virtual reality, to transform library services, improve accessibility, and provide personalized user experiences.

According to her, librarians must view technology as a means to enhance access and user engagement and strike a balance between content development and technological deployment.

To revolutionize libraries, she stated, it is essential to strengthen, sustain, and invest in systems librarians, recognising their value and positioning them at the heart of digital transformation strategies.

On her part, the Chief Executive Officer, National Library of Nigeria, Prof. Chinwe Anunobi, emphasised the importance of leveraging technology to enhance library services, promote information accessibility, and bridge the knowledge gap in the digital age.

She highlighted the need for collaboration and innovation in the library sector, even as the Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Sonny Echono, revealed that it has spent over N20 billion in libraries of beneficiary institutions across the country.