Boosting and Tracking Library Patronage Through The Strategic Deployment and Marketing of ICT Based Resources and Services at The University of Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examined the trends and effects in the deployment, marketing and patronage of library services through the introduction of library resources and service delivered through Information and Communication Technology )ICT(-driven academic library resources and services at the University of Jos, Nigeria. The analyses were based on information obtained from library records, statistics and publications. The analyses x-rayed the strategies which the university library used to market its services to the users, such as free wired and wireless Internet access in the library, cheaper photocopying and printing services, sensitization and marketing presentations, etc. Library services and e-resources in library were also examined, including the new subscriptions to several electronic databases which give users opportunity to access hundreds of full text journals in many disciplines. Nevertheless, the data also showed that there were annual fluctuations in the number of people who made use of the library and their library-based computer laboratory facilities. Recommendations are provided on how to improve the adequacy of the library services, as well as use lCT to effectively market the services