Basic Skills Needed in Continuing Professional Development of Librarians in Nigeria

Abstract

Aim: The study investigated continuing professional development of librarians and basic skills mostly needed in 10 academic libraries in Delta State, Nigeria.

Methods: The investigation employed descriptive survey design. The population for the study comprised of 70 Academic librarians. The questionnaire was the instrument that was employed in data collection. However, 63 questionnaires were returned and used as the sample size. Analysis was done using mean statistics.

Results: The study revealed that the mostly needed skills are effective communication skills, technical skills, computer literacy and information seeking skills, while the mostly used methods in the professional development of librarians are conferences, seminars, workshops and short courses. The challenges include poor attitude of library staff to continuing professional development initiatives (waiting to be sent) amongst others.

Conclusion: Improvement of attitude of library staff and Library Management, collaboration between Nigerian Library Association and Nigerian Library Registration Council were adduced as solutions to the problems.