Abstract
This study examined the effect of information literacy skills (ILS) on the research productivity of academic librarians in federal universities in North-Central Nigeria. Using a survey design, 106 academic librarians from seven federal universities were sampled. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using frequencies, percentages, mean scores, and Chi-square and regression analyses. Findings revealed that librarians possessed strong foundational information literacy skills, particularly in identifying information needs and selecting appropriate sources, but lower proficiency in advanced competencies such as citation management and teaching IL to users. Information literacy skills were found to have a statistically significant positive effect on research productivity (χ² = 21.87, df = 9, p = 0.010; multiple regression R² = 0.420, p = 0.001). Key challenges included inadequate training, limited access to databases, and insufficient institutional support. The study concludes that strengthening information literacy skills through targeted professional development and institutional support is essential for enhancing research productivity among academic librarians.
Keywords: information literacy, research productivity, academic librarians, federal universities, North-Central Nigeria
Publication Date: 2026-07-31