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This paper reports an examination of effective serials management practices in some academic libraries in Niger state. The study specifically investigated the types of serial materials in the libraries. It also examined the acquisition methods as well as methods applied in organizing serial materials in the studied libraries. Challenges bedeviling effective management of serial information sources also form the objective. The study further made a review from different sources on management of serials in libraries. The population of the study consisted of twenty three (23) staff manning the serials units of the affected libraries. Questionnaire and observation check-list were used as the instruments for data collection. 23 copies of questionnaire and observation check-list were distributed, filled and completely (100%) returned for data analysis. Descriptive statistics of frequency and percentages was used for data analysis. The study revealed that Newspapers, magazines and academic journals are the major serial materials available in the academic libraries. Direct purchase from book vendors, Constant subscription of physical serials and online databases were the main methods applied in acquiring serials in the libraries. It discovered that shelving and shelf reading, carding among other were the organizational techniques adopted by the libraries. Paucity of funds, Inadequate ICT facilities as well as inadequate working tools was the factors bedeviling effective serials management in the libraries. The study thus recommended among others that adequate funds be allocated to the libraries, online subscription be enhanced, conducive working environment for library personnel, independent power sources be provided to the academic libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge management is an essential area of activity in organizations. It harnesses valuable information resources for the benefit of patrons and success of 21st century academic libraries. Academic libraries have important role in updating its practices in knowledge management which increases enviable technological devices and sophiscated system of storage and retrieval. Thus the paper highlights the concept of knowledge management, knowledge application management, knowledge dissemination management, knowledge management skills for information professionals, importance of knowledge management in academic libraries and knowledge management tools. Thus the paper posits that academic libraries adopt knowledge innovation management, in order to deliver library services through innovative library technology to ensure they remain relevant in the 21st century. It was recommended among others that knowledge management practices should be inculcated into academic libraries in the provision of library services and information dissemination to patrons. Also, information professionals should constantly update their skills and competencies in order to be key players in knowledge management phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application of information and communication technologies to academic libraries has brought remarkable improvement to various services offered by the library, ICT has improved efficiency and influenced changes from storehouses to knowledge management centers, however application of ICT in developing economies like Nigeria is still in budding stage, application and utilization of ICT is marred with various challenges, this paper attempts to review the status of ICT in academic libraries of Nigeria keeping in view benefits, challenges, ICT competence of library and information science professionals. it is hoped that the present studies will guide the library and information professional and management staff on effective application of ICT, understanding the need and relevance of ICT skill acquisitions by the library and information science professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]