Empowering Librarians Through Data Analytics: Advancing Skills for Modern Information Services

In an era defined by digital transformation, librarians are increasingly expected to transcend traditional roles and integrate data analytics into library operations to support evidence-based decision-making and enhance service delivery. This study investigates the current level of data analytics proficiency among Nigerian librarians, explores perceived relevance, identifies key challenges, and proposes strategies for capacity development. A survey was conducted among 63 professional librarians across academic libraries in Nigeria, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings reveal that most librarians possess only basic or intermediate proficiency in tools such as Microsoft Excel, SPSS, Power BI, and data visualization techniques. Notably, Power BI and advanced data cleaning remain areas of low competence. The major barriers to skill acquisition include a lack of formal training (87.3%) and limited institutional support (6.3%), especially in mentorship. Despite these challenges, an overwhelming majority (90.5%) perceive data analytics as highly relevant to their professional responsibilities, highlighting a strong willingness to learn and adapt. The study recommends integrating data analytics into LIS curricula, institutionalizing regular professional training, and fostering mentorship and support systems. It also advocates for policy reforms and dedicated funding to bridge the data competency gap. By empowering librarians with data analytics skills, libraries can better align with global digital trends and reinforce their roles as indispensable partners in academic and research ecosystems.

Librarians, Data Analytics, Skills, Information Services, Service Delivery

1. Adefila, A., Oyelude, A., & Ojo, O. (2023). Data analytics proficiency and professional practice among Nigerian academic librarians. Nigerian Libraries, 56(2), 34–49. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

2. Anunobi, C. V., & Ezejiofor, V. O. (2021). Digital literacy and data skills among librarians in Nigerian university libraries. Information Impact: Journal of Information and Knowledge Management, 12(1), 77–89. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

3. Anyaoku, E. N., Ezeani, C. N., & Ezema, I. J. (2015). Data literacy skills and the readiness of librarians for emerging roles in Nigerian academic libraries. International Journal of Library and Information Science, 7(3), 45–55. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

4. Chukwuemeka, E. E., & Idris, M. A. (2023). Digital skills and service delivery in academic libraries: Evidence from Taraba State University. Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal), Article 7856. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

5. David-West, B.T. & Ig-worlu, M.O. (2023). AI-Driven future: Strategies and skills development for Nigerian Librarians. Gateway Information Journal, 24(1&2), 1-13 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

6. Emiri, O. T. (2015). Digital literacy skills among librarians in university libraries in the South-South of Nigeria. Communications in Information Science and Management, 3(2), 1–9. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

7. Ezeani, C. N., & Igwesi, U. (2012). Using social media for dynamic library service delivery: The Nigeria experience. Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal), Article 814. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

8. Federer, L. M., Lu, Y. L., & Joubert, D. J. (2018). Data librarianship: Profiles and perspectives. Journal of the Medical Library Association, 106(2), 198–206. https://doi.org/10.5195/jmla.2018.306 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

9. Nash, R., Thomas, J., & Akande, A. (2024). Empowering academic libraries through data fluency: New roles for librarians. Journal of Academic Librarianship, 50(1), 101238. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acalib.2023.102662 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

10. Okike, B. I., & Edewor, N. (2022). Bridging the data literacy gap: Reimagining library science education in Nigeria. African Journal of Library, Archives & Information Science, 32(1), 1–15. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

11. Tella, A. (2021). Librarians’ perception of opportunities and challenges associated with big data in public libraries. Internet Reference Services Quarterly 24(3–4), 89–113. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

12. Westbrooks, L. (2023). Reinventing the librarian: Data analytics and digital transformation in academic libraries. Journal of Information Science, 49(2), 211–227. https://doi.org/10.1177/01655515221083378 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

• What the Desert Fathers Teach Data Scientists: Ancient Ascetic Principles for Ethical Machine-Learning Practice
• Comparative Analysis of Some Machine Learning Algorithms for the Classification of Ransomware
• Comparative Performance Analysis of Some Priority Queue Variants in Dijkstra’s Algorithm
• Transfer Learning in Detecting E-Assessment Malpractice from a Proctored Video Recordings.
• Dual-Modal Detection of Parkinson’s Disease: A Clinical Framework and Deep Learning Approach Using NeuroParkNet