Assessing librarians’ perceptions of digital platform utilization for marketing information resources and services in university libraries in Kano State

Abstract

Background: This study explored how librarians in university libraries in Kano State perceive the use of digital platforms for marketing information resources and services. In today’s digital environment, university libraries are expected to rely increasingly on online platforms to improve the visibility of their resources, enhance access, and engage users more effectively.

Purpose: The study sought to examine librarians’ perceptions of the use of digital platforms for marketing information resources and services in university libraries in Kano State, and to identify the challenges affecting their effective utilization.

Methodology: The study employed a quantitative approach, using a cross-sectional survey design. A total of 160 librarians from six university libraries in Kano State, with active online presence, constituted the study population, out of which 149 valid responses were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results: The findings indicate that librarians generally hold positive views about digital platforms. Most respondents acknowledged that digital platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, X (Twitter), Instagram, and email, among others, are effective for promoting library resources and services, improving communication with users, and helping libraries remain relevant in a technology-driven academic environment. Despite these positive perceptions, several challenges were found to limit the effective use of digital platforms. These challenges include inadequate technical skills, limited training opportunities, poor digital infrastructure, and the high cost of maintaining digital platforms, as well as insufficient funding, weak institutional support, and low user awareness of available digital services.

Conclusion: The study concludes that librarians in university libraries in Kano State are positively disposed toward the use of digital platforms; however, structural, financial, and capacity-related constraints hinder their effective application for marketing purposes.

Implications: The study recommends sustained investment in ICT infrastructure, continuous training and capacity-building for librarians, the development of supportive institutional policies, and increased user awareness, in order to strengthen digital marketing practices in university libraries across Kano State.