The University of Jos Library has a rich history that dates back to February 1972, when its nucleus was established as part of the Jos Campus of the University of Ibadan. Since then, it has evolved significantly, undergoing extensions to both its infrastructure and collections. Today, under the leadership of Dr. Thomas A. Adigun, the University Librarian, it stands as a comprehensive resource center for the university community, boasting specialized collections, a bindery, and various dedicated reading spaces.
The Medical Library, for instance, offers seating for 1,650 readers, with additional stations reserved for staff and postgraduate students. In December 1976, a branch library was opened at the Bauchi Road campus, located five kilometers from the Townsite campus. Over time, this branch has become the main library, housing the administration, support services, and document sections, and serving faculties such as Natural, Pharmaceutical, and Environmental Sciences. It provides seating for 733 readers, including reserved spaces for staff, postgraduates, and handicapped users. Meanwhile, the Law Library, relocated to the Faculty of Law, accommodates 123 readers.
In 1985, the construction of the central university library building at the permanent site was completed. However, due to space constraints within the university, the building now houses the libraries of the Faculties of Arts, Social Sciences, and Education. The first floor offers seating for 486 readers, catering to students and faculty alike.
Across its libraries, the University of Jos Library holds an impressive collection, including 169,404 volumes of books, 25,824 bound journals, and 20,263 materials in the Documents Section, underscoring its role as a vital academic resource for the institution.
With its expansive history and role as a cornerstone of academic life, the University of Jos Library has continued to adapt to the changing needs of students, faculty, and researchers.
In a recent conversation with Dr. Thomas A. Adigun, the University Librarian, he shed light on the current challenges and accomplishments of the University of Jos Library. Despite its long-standing history and vital role in academic life, the library faces hurdles that require innovative solutions and external support to overcome.
One of the library’s most pressing challenges is the inadequate electricity supply. Dr. Thomas A. Adigun, explained that this limitation hinders the library’s ability to fully serve its users, including students, staff, and researchers. “Electricity is a major challenge to us because we are unable to serve our users the way we would have wanted to,” he noted. Since essential services like powering computer systems rely heavily on electricity, the disruptions affect the library’s operational efficiency.
Another critical issue is insufficient internet access. “The MBPS or broadband that we have for the library is not enough, and all our services are internet-based,” Professor Ochai stated. Key systems, such as the library management software, depend on reliable internet connections, but frequent interruptions from service providers make it difficult to deliver professional and consistent services.
Despite these challenges, the University of Jos Library is actively working on plans to expand its resources and infrastructure. The library has applied for funding from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to address these issues. “We are looking forward to TETFund approving our application for library intervention. With sufficient funding, we can significantly improve the library’s resources,” Professor Ochai emphasized. These improvements would support both the physical and digital needs of the university community.
In its efforts to adapt to the modern era, the library has invested in cutting-edge communication tools to enhance teaching, learning, research, and community service. A notable acquisition is teleconferencing equipment, which is set to be installed once TETFund verifies and clears it. “This will enable students and staff to engage in virtual collaborations effectively,” Professor Ochai shared, underscoring the library’s commitment to embracing technology.
Over the years, the library has recorded remarkable achievements. Among them is a robust human capital development program that equips staff with modern methods for disseminating information. “We have ensured that library staff receive training in modern methods, which enhances their capabilities to serve better,” he explained. Additionally, the library has introduced an integrated software system that allows students to query databases seamlessly, improving access to academic resources. The library has also expanded its infrastructure, now accommodating up to 4,000 users with improved seating arrangements.
John Lanshima, a staff member at the University of Jos Library, highlighted several pressing challenges in the library’s efforts to provide quality services to its users. One significant issue is the inconsistent power supply, which affects the overall user experience. “When students come to read, there’s often no power, making it difficult for them to study effectively,” he explained. This problem underscores the library’s reliance on electricity to create a conducive learning environment.
Lanshima also emphasized the importance of leveraging digital tools to enhance access to academic materials. With the advancement of technology, the library has adopted various digital resources to facilitate easier access for students and researchers. However, the lack of sufficient funding remains a major obstacle. “Funding is needed not just to improve infrastructure but also to enhance the overall experience of library users,” Lanshima noted, highlighting the need for consistent financial support to meet growing demands.
Another critical issue is the preservation of the library’s existing resources. According to Lanshima, this challenge involves both maintaining the materials and addressing user behaviors that threaten their longevity. “In the quest to improve what we have, we must also focus on preservation,” he said. Instances of students bringing water and food into the library, as well as vandalizing books, pose significant risks to the collection. These actions not only degrade the materials but also hinder efforts to maintain a high standard of service.
For students like Maplang Dominic, a 300-level engineering student, the University of Jos Library is more than just a repository of books; it is an essential tool for academic success. Dominic commended the library for its wide range of resources, including course-specific materials and advanced-level references that support students as they progress through their studies. “The library provides a rich experience,” Dominic shared, adding that it has become a vital part of his academic routine. Its quiet, focused environment makes it an ideal place for uninterrupted study and deep engagement with course content.
Isaac Kudu, another 300-level student from the Civil Engineering Department, echoed similar sentiments. He emphasized the library’s role in providing essential technological support, particularly its Wi-Fi services. “The library’s Wi-Fi helps us access necessary materials for studying,” Kudu explained. With the increasing reliance on digital resources, the internet connectivity offered by the library allows students to explore online journals, e-books, and other academic platforms critical for their education.
The University of Jos Library has grown over the years to meet the needs of students, staff, and researchers. Despite facing challenges like limited power supply and funding, it continues to find ways to improve, from adding new technology to preserving its valuable resources. With ongoing efforts to expand and adapt, the library is ready to face the future and remain an important part of the university’s success.
Reports and Photos by Ritnen Sunday Gotau (Library Services Correspondent) (1/5)
Edited by Israel Fakwagh Ciboh
