History of library automation in Nigeria.

Library automation in Nigeria began in the late 1970s with the introduction of computerized systems to manage library collections and services. The first automated library system in Nigeria was implemented at the University of Ibadan in 1978, followed by other academic libraries in the country.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the Nigerian government and various institutions began to invest more in library automation, leading to the development of more sophisticated systems and technologies. The National Library of Nigeria also started to implement automation systems to improve its services and make its collections more accessible to users.

In the early 2000s, the advent of the internet and digital technologies further revolutionized library automation in Nigeria. Libraries began to digitize their collections, implement online catalogs, and provide access to electronic resources. The use of open-source library management systems also became more popular among libraries in Nigeria.

Today, library automation in Nigeria continues to evolve with the adoption of new technologies such as cloud computing, mobile applications, and artificial intelligence. Many libraries in the country are now offering online services, virtual reference assistance, and digital repositories to meet the changing needs of their users. Despite some challenges such as inadequate funding and infrastructure, library automation in Nigeria has made significant progress in improving access to information and enhancing library services.

Early Days (1950s-1970s)

- 1959: The University of Ibadan established the first computerized library system in Nigeria, using an IBM card sorter.
- 1960s: The University of Nigeria, Nsukka adopted a manual system called the "LIBRARYER."
- 1970s: The use of punched cards and tape drives became common in Nigerian libraries.

Mainframe Era (1980s-1990s)

- 1980s: The introduction of mainframe computers led to the adoption of integrated library management systems (LMSs).
- 1984: The first LMS, TINLIB, was developed by the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC).
- 1990s: Other mainframe LMSs, such as VTLS and Dynix, were introduced to Nigerian libraries.

Client-Server Era (2000s-2010s)

- 2000s: The shift to client-server architectures brought increased flexibility and lower costs.
- 2002: The National Library of Nigeria launched an online public access catalog (OPAC).
- 2004: The NUC established the National Library and Information System (NALIS), a consortium for library automation.

Cloud Era (2010s-Present)

- 2010s: Cloud-based LMSs emerged, offering cost-effectiveness and remote access.
- 2015: The NUC launched the Nigerian University Library System (NULS), a national LMS for university libraries.
- 2020s: Current trends include the adoption of mobile apps, artificial intelligence (AI)-powered services, and open access resources.

Key Milestones

- 1977: Establishment of the Library Association of Nigeria (LAN)
- 1988: Formation of the NUC Library Committee
- 2006: Launch of the Open Access Initiative in Nigeria
- 2011: Establishment of the National Library Automation Commission (NOLAC)
- 2018: Introduction of the Library of Things concept in Nigerian libraries

Nigerian libraries continue to embrace technological advancements to enhance their services and provide access to information for users.