Abstract
Library automation is the use of computer software and hardware to perform traditional
library tasks like cataloguing, circulation, and acquisitions more efficiently and accurately,
replacing manual methods. Library automation is essential to library functions and services
as it aims to reduce staff effort on repetitive tasks, improve service speed and quality,
enhance user access to resources and digital content, and facilitate resource sharing
between libraries. The paper adopted a qualitative research design, gathering data from
both primary and secondary sources of data. This paper offers an insight into the
importance of library automation and progress made so far by Nigerian libraries in the
application of ICT for library and information services. An intensive review of the literature
reveals that Nigerian libraries still have a long way to go in achieving the ideal setting of a
well-automated library. The paper examined the daily operations and routines of the
library and how ICT can assist with those functions. The paper also looked at the numerous
benefits of automating libraries for the usefulness of both librarians and library users. The
challenges limiting the progress of ICT applications in Nigerian libraries were identified,
and recommendations were made to improve the present state of ICT applications for
libraries and information services, aiming to make Nigerian libraries the pride of African
libraries.
Keywords: Information Communication Technology, Library Automation, Information
Resources, Software, Digital library.
Publication Date: 2026-07-31