Assessment of Library Resources in Theological Institutions in North Central States of Nigeria

Assessment of Library Resources in Theological Institutions in North Central States of Nigeria A thesis presented to the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Nige

Assessment of Library Resources in Theological Institutions in North Central States of Nigeria

A thesis presented to the Department of Library and Information Science,

University of Nigeria, Nsukka in fulfillment of the requirement for Doctor of Philosophy (Ph-D)

Degree in Library and Information Science

By

Gupiyem Gungsat GUPIYEM PG/Ph.D/002/32814

Gupiyem Gungsat GUPIYEM, a postgraduate student in the Department of Library and Information Science with Registration Number PG/Ph.D/002/32814, has satisfactorily completed the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Library and Information Science The work embodied in this thesis is original and has not been submitted in part or in full for any other diploma or degree of this or any other university

This research work is dedicated to my beloved late father, Gungsat Gupiyem Mwelnung Wumben, who never lived long enough to see his dreams and prayers come to pass

I wish to thank God first and foremost There is nothing that I could accomplish without His wisdom, word and power To my supervisor, Professor, V W Dike I owe a lot of thanks for the special attention devoted to this work at all stages Indeed, she proved herself a mother and a reliable educator The contributions of Professor S.A Ezeudu and Dr (Mrs) N E Achebe are gratefully acknowledged, especially during the proposal defence Thanks for all your contributions to see that this research work becomes a reality My appreciation is extended to University of Jos for sponsoring me for this programme and to all the management of the institutions I contacted for data collection, Prof Ochai, A Dr Akintunde, S.A and Mrs Tashi, L.

I for their encouragement I am indeed very thankful I also want to appreciate the sacrifice of Mr Dawel, O.P and Mr Gyang, J for typing the work from proposal presentation to seminar My gratitude is also extended to Dr Damar, D D for her financial contribution and moral support from beginning to the end Thanks are also due to Mr Toro M.A the statistician for all his contributions

My special thanks go to my beloved wife, Mrs Gupiyem Helen, my children Nanbal, Walshak, Anmak, Bamnan and to my mother, Na Tabitha Gungsat who endured my absence all these years To all my lecturers in the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Nigeria Nsukka namely, Pastor (Dr) F Ekere, Dr A J Mole, Dr V Nwachukwu and Dr R E Ozioko for always being there for me with a response to my numerous enquiries Thanks for your contributions my seminar leaders, in the persons of Professor Q J Nwoji (Chairperson), Dr A J Mole (Content Reader), Dr J O Chukwu (Design Reader), Dr F M Onu (PG Rep) I am also thankful to all my instruments validators for their contributions in improving the structure and content of the instruments I also want to appreciate the efforts and financial supports of Mrs K J Gukas, A A Toto and J I Gagman and all those who contributed in one way or the other, to make this study a success, May the Almighty God bless you all.

Certification - - - iii

Dedication - - - iv

Acknowledgment - - - v

Table of Contents - - - vi

List of Tables - - - viii

Abbreviations and Acronyms - - - - - - - ix

Abstract - - - xi

Chapter one: Introduction - - - 1

Background of the Study - - - 1

Statement of the Problem - - - 16

Purpose of the Study - - - 18

Research Questions - - - 18

Significance of the Study - - - 19

Scope of the Study - - - 21

Chapter Two; Review of Related Literature - - - 22

Conceptual Framework - - - 22

Library and Theological Libraries - - - 22

Funding of Theological Libraries - - - - - - 37

Printed and Electronic Resources for Theological Libraries - - - 38

Facilities of Theological Libraries - - - - - - 43

Human Resources of Theological Libraries - - - - - 44

Curriculum and Collection of Theological Libraries - - - - 48

Challenges of Special Libraries for Resource Provision - - - 51

Standard and Techniques for Assessing Library Collection- - - 53

Theoretical Framework - - - 69

Review of Empirical Studies - - - 75

Summary of Literature Reviewed - - - 77

Chapter Three: Research Method - - - 79

Research Design - - - 79

Area of Study - - - 80

Population of the Study - - - 82

Sample and Sampling Techniques - - - 83

Instruments for Data Collection - - - 83

Methods for Data Collection - - - 86

Validation of the Instruments - - - 87

Reliability of the Instruments - - - 87

Method of Data Analysis - - - 88

Chapter Four: Presentation of Results - - - 89

Research Question 1 - - - 89

Research Question 2 - - - 90

Research Question 3 - - - 96

Research Question 4 - - - 98

Research Question 5 - - - 101

Research Question 6 - - - 109

Summary of Major Findings - - - 114

Chapter Five: Discussion of Results - - - 117

Discussion of Findings - - - 117

Sources of Funding Theological Libraries - - - - - - 117

Print and Electronic Resources - - - 118

Library Facilities in Theological Libraries - - - - - 121

Human Resources in Theological Libraries - - - 122

Curriculum and Library Collections - - - - - - - 123

Challenges for the Provisions of Library Resources - - - 124

Implications for the Study - - - 125

Recommendations - - - 126

Limitation of the Study - - - 127

Suggestions of Further Study - - - 128

Conclusions - - - 129

References - - - 130

Appendix i: List of Institutions Covered in the Study - - - 153

Appendix ii: Sample Formula Adopted - - - 156

Appendix iii: Observation Checklist - - - 157

Appendix iv: Letter to Respondents - - - 162

Appendix v: Users Questionnaire (ALRTINCSN) - - - 163

Appendix vi: Interview Schedule with Librarians - - - 166

Appendix vii: Validation of Instruments - - - 167

Appendix viii: Instrument Evaluation Guide for Experts - - - - 168

Appendix ix: Letter to Provost for Permission - - - 170

Appendix xa to xe Validators Report - - - 171

Appendix xi: Letter of Introduction by Head of Department - - - - 243

Appendix xii: Certification of Correction of Ph.D Proposal Presentation - - 244

Appendix xiii: Reliability of Test and Re-test Result - - - 245

Appendix xiv: Agreement Analysis (Interview Schedule Result) - - - 246

Appendix xv: Map of Nigeria Showing the Location of North Central States - 248 Appendix xvi Certification of Correction of Ph.D Seminar - - - - 249

Appendix xvii Table Showing Distribution of Questionnaire - - - 250

Appendix xviii Table Showing Institutions Interviewed and Observed - - 251

Appendix xix Approval of Title of Thesis and Synopsis - - - - 252

LIST OF TABLES Table 1.Print Resources Available in Theological Libraries - - - - 91

Table 2 Electronic Resources Available in Theological Libraries - - - 93

Table 3 Library Facilities in Theological Libraries in North Central States - - 96

Table 4 Human Resources Heading Theological Libraries - - - - 98 Table 5 Human Resources Available in Theological Libraries - - - - 100 Table 6 Mean(x) Showing the Core Subject of the Curriculum of Theological Libraries 101 Table 7 Mean (x) Showing the Challenges for the Provision of Library Resources in

Theological Libraries in North Central States of Nigeria - - - 109

This study was designed to assess library resources in theological institutions in North Central States of Nigeria The main problem of the study is that literature shows that no study has been done in this field and materials are few and scanty, therefore, a study conducted will stimulate further research in this field To achieve this, six purposes were formulated and also six research questions were asked The population of the study is the 22 theological libraries in the north central states with a total of 5760 people (students, faculty members and non- teaching staff) Sample size of 15 librarians and 360 library users (staff and students) were used Fifteen institutions were visited for the purpose of observation and interview of those in charge of the libraries, institutions covered came from four states namely: Benue, Kogi, Kwara, and Plateau The instruments for data collection were a questionnaire for library users titled, Assessment of library resources in theological institutions in North Central States of Nigeria (ALRTINCSN), check-list for observation of library resources and interview schedule for those in charge of the institution’s libraries The data collected were analyzed using frequency counts and percentages The findings of the study showed that majority of the libraries in theological institutions are without professional library staff (librarians) The findings further revealed that almost all the theological institutions in North Central States of Nigeria depend mainly on printed materials in their libraries and are lacking in electronic resources The study also revealed that funding is a major problem in theological libraries which affects every fabric of its development The researcher postulated eight recommendations based on the findings of the study.

ABBREVIATIONS AND ACROYNOMS

The followings abbreviations and acronyms are used in this study.

ALA refers to American Library Association

ANZTLA refers to American New Zealand Theological Association

APA refers to American Psychological Association

BCC refers to Bishop Crowther College

CD refers to Compact disc

CD_ROM refers to Compact disc Read Only Memory

CEFN refers to Christian Evangelical Fellowship of Nigeria

CFI refers to Christian Faith Institute

CI refers to Christian Institute

CMML refers to Christian Missions in Many Lands

COCIN refers to Church of Christ in Nations (formerly Church of Christ in Nigeria)

DDC refers to Dewey decimal classification

DVD refers to Digital Versatile disc

ECWA refers to Evangelical Church Winning All (formerly Evangelical Church of West Africa) ETA refers to Evangelical Theological Association

ETS refers to Evangel Theological Seminary

EYN refers to Ekklisiya Yanuwa’a Nigera

GCT refers to Gindiri College of Theology

ICT refers to Information and Communication Technology

IE refers to Internet explorer

IFLA refers to International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions

JETS refers to Jos ECWA Theological Seminary

LAWNA refers to Lagos, Western and Northern Apostolic

LC refers to Library of Congress

LP refers to Long Programme

Ms refers to Microsoft

NBTE refers to National Board of Technical Education

NCCE refers to National Commission for Colleges of Education

NGO refers to Non-Governmental Organisation

NLA refers to Nigerian Library Association

NTLA refers to Nigerian Theological Library Association

NTU refers to Nanyang Technological University

NUC refers to National Universities Commission

OPAC refers to Online Public Access Catalogue

SAMS refers to St Augustine Major Seminary

SBS refers to School of Biblical Studies

SIST refers to Spiritan International School of Theology

SPSS refers to Special pack for Social Sciences

STAMS refers to St Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary

TCNN refers to Theological College of Northern Nigeria

UMCA refers to United Missionary Church of Africa

UMCATC refers to United Missionary Church of Africa Theological College

UMBC refers to United Middle Belt Forum

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Theology is a term that has no single definition Over the years differentpeople have defined this term based on their conceptual framework andunderstanding Hodge (1861) is of the opinion that theology is an English wordderived from two Greek words signifying “discourse concerning God and man, andconcerning God and man’s relationship to him” It is the study which throughparticipation in and reflection upon a religious faith seeks to express the content ofthis faith in the clearest and most coherent language available (Macquerrie, 1966).According to Ernst (2004), theology has some unique characteristics, which make

it different from other disciplines of education; it is unique because it grows out ofthe encounter with God; it is an experience and reflection about this encounter Inthe view of Hodge (1861) theology is scientific, while religion is practical andexperiential Rahner and Vorgrimber (1965) define theology as essentially theconscious effort of the Christian to harken on the actual verbal revelation, whichGod has promulgated in history, to acquire knowledge of it by the methods ofscholarship and to reflect upon its implications One attribute of theology is itsinclination to scholarly contribution Dules (1992) opined that theology is usuallyrestricted to scholarly reflection upon the faith by persons who have attained high

degrees or noteworthy publications Galadima (1998) and Kafang (2009) havewritten that theology is traditionally considered to be the task of academicallytrained Christian scholars These scholars share one quality, publication ofscholarly works, which contribute to knowledge These definitions based onscientific approach and scholarship is relevant to this study because libraryresources of any academic centre are part of repositories that encourage researchactivities and scholastic publications

Babalola (2003) has observed that the essence of a sound theologicalknowledge is to enable the trainee to think and act reflectively on their acquiredknowledge and to have self-control rather than externally imposed control Theestablishment and survival of good theological institutions in Nigeria isfundamental to the spiritual and intellectual soundness of the entire nation and ifpoor theological education is tolerated, it will lead to weak spiritual foundationsand spiritual chaos, which in turn will lead to a lawless, undisciplined, corruptsociety and that will lead to lack of peace and tranquility as well as ungodlybehaviour in society A good theological institution, according to Bailey (2003),can provide an environment for biblical, theological and ministry training, whileallowing for personal reflection under the direction and encouragement of highlyskilled and caring mentors (scholars) that few people can find outside the seminaryexperience Owoh (1986) stated that the Church views education as the instrumentthrough which certain values and goals are acquired and propagated The

acquisition of these values and goals is an expression of human personality, andthe search for these values and goals is to learn and understand, because theindividual does not possess comprehensive knowledge He further stated thateducation strengthens the feeling of responsibility to the community and at thesame time strengthens individual will power Education makes the consciencesensitive to social and intellectual truth It imparts some power of discriminationbetween good and evil, between reality and superstition Therefore, the Church’scontribution to development through education is an attempt to lead and liberatethe community Needless to stress that education is an instrument through whichGod, as the source of ultimate knowledge, love, solidarity speaks to thecommunity

According to Bidmos (1993), a critical examination of the religious climatemakes a strong case for the development of sound theological knowledge,especially with the attendant eruption of violence in different parts of the globe Heopined that the training of church ministers must take cognizance of thecharacteristics and challenges of the religiously pluralistic society in which theywill operate They should be well equipped in theological knowledge for the taskahead of them and this includes exposure to standard libraries and their resources.Ngufuwan (2010) has expressed the view that there are challenges like theologicalcorruption, which deal with the distortion of some biblical doctrines by the Church.These are challenges that theological institutions need to address in their

curriculum The laity and religious adherents with no previous training in theologyare the primary focus of most theological programmes worldwide Courses offered

in theological institutions are therefore less technical and are designed to respond

to the pastoral needs of the participants Spiritan International School of Theology(SIST, 1998) Macquerrie (1966) opined that theology comes into relation withsubjects like Philosophy, History, the sciences of man (anthropology, psychology,sociology, etc.) and the natural sciences This is so because theology is part of thewhole intellectual enterprise of mankind and must therefore stand in relation toother disciplines The library collection should therefore be reflective of thevarious subjects in theological institutions

The Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology (1995) and Webster’sEncyclopedic Dictionary of English Language (1996) defined library as a place setapart to contain books and other materials for reading, study, or reference, as aroom, set of rooms, or building where books may be read or borrowed A library isdefined as a collection of information, sources and services, organized for use, andmaintained by a public body, an institution or a private individual In the moretraditional sense it means a collection of books This collection and services areused by people who choose not to or cannot afford to purchase an extensivecollection themselves, or who need materials no individual can reasonably beexpected to have, or who require professional assistance with their research.However, with the collection of media other than books for storing information,

many libraries are now also repositories and access points for maps, prints or otherdocuments and artworks on various storage media such as microfilm, microfiche,audio tapes, compact discs (CDs), long programmes (LPs), Cassettes, Video tapesand digital versatile disc (DVDs), and provide public facilities to access compactrewriteable (CD-ROM) and subscription to databases and the Internet Thusmodern libraries are increasingly being redefined as places to get unrestrictedaccess to information in many formats and from many sources In addition toproviding materials, they also provide the services of specialists who are experts inmatters related to finding and organizing information and interpreting informationneeds, called librarians More recently, libraries are understood as extendingbeyond the physical walls of a building, by including material accessible byelectronic means, and by providing the assistance of librarians in navigating andanalyzing tremendous amounts of knowledge with a variety of digital tools(Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2012).

In the opinion of Igwebuike (2008) modern library functionality has gonebeyond the use of print and non-print materials in information service Currentpractice involves new information technology devices Libraries with these moderndevices download information through Internet The Internet service offers full textdatabase of journals, books, newsletters, standards, theses and dissertations Digital(or electronic or virtual libraries) are paperless in content; they have all their stock

in electronic format Users of electronic libraries download all needed information

through the Internet; this also includes theological libraries that are digital Avirtual library, in the opinion of Achebe (2008), is a library in which a number ofdifferent information resources are brought to the end users through electronicnetworks; it has no wall but the collections have boundaries It is alsotelecommunication technology- driven, research oriented resources that enablescholars to obtain timely and up-to-the- minute information in any subject area Inthe views of Serema and Mooko (2002), the Internet is a good example of a non-print reference source It is also often referred to as an “information highway”because of its capability to transmit a vast amount of information to anybodyanywhere in the world Internet provides facilities like electronic mail, telnet, on-line searching, electronic publishing and user groups It is assumed that in this age

of technology all theological libraries in Nigeria are supposed to have Internetconnectivity to assist users with such library needs

Stressing the roles of a library that is rich in resources, Okpa-Iroha (1985)writes that:

(a) It promotes the development of reading interests and habits among users.(b) It contributes to academic achievement in all subjects

(c) It increases the chance of success of students of higher learning or

(f) It serves as centre for training users to study independently by providing a

wide range of materials for class projects, individual projects and classassignments

(g) It serves as a centre of intellectual life

(h) It is an academic centre in any institution of learning, which trains users in

the use of books and other sources of information (p 49)

Similarly, Akintunde (2003) writes that theological libraries are specializedacademic institutions, invariably operating within the global definition oflibrarianship Such libraries have to fulfill the conditions of staying within theboundary of practice in order to be regarded as libraries According to Newhall(1970), the aim of a theological library is to make the library a centre of service toits users The quality of the library is one important factor in the quality ofeducation given by the seminary If the library is well run, well supplied withuseful library resources and widely used, the whole programme of the theologicalinstitution will be strengthened The library in a theological institution should offerstudents an exciting supplement to classroom lectures or tutorials Its books,periodicals and facilities for Internet browsing give many students their first realopportunity for wider reading or research activities With the encouragement fromteachers and librarians the theological library should be the starting point for a life-long habit of reading, self-directed study and research habit for those that passedthrough it (Newhall, 1970) The Association of Christian Librarians (1994)consider the library as an essential part of any theological institution and that alleducational processes rely on the library for resources for the intellectualdevelopment of the learners It provides the tools which support classroominstruction and the curriculum of an institution Hardy (2007) writes that an

excellent theological library is that which is systematically collected according to aselection policy, built on the mission statement of the library and that of theinstitution, with trained personnel organizing it for maximum usefulness to bothstudents and faculty He stated that good libraries of the future will not be built onprinted materials alone but take full advantage of information available globallythrough information technology.

Gates (1990) concured that the activities of a library are performed for thepurpose of serving its clientele In a theological library the users are the facultymembers, the students (seminarians), administrative staff, old students andresearchers Students in theological institutions form the bulk users of the library.They could be Church workers or intending Church workers, government workers

or politicians, but the majority of seminary students are clergy or clergy in training.The prospectus of Spiritan International School of Theology (SIST,1998) statedthat the products of its institution are to serve in the society as priests, religiousmissionary workers, administrators, teachers at all level of post-primaryinstitutions, welfare and community officers, career advisers, as well as publicrelations and cultural officers This shows that the products of theologicalinstitutions could be found in all walks of life By their training they are supposed

to be light of the world

Library services depend on resources of various types: human and material.Resources in the context of this study refer to materials in the form of print, non-

print and electronic resources (both hardware and software), facilities (libraryaccommodation and functions), personnel working in the library (bothprofessionals and non-professionals) and financial allocations of the library Theavailability of these resources in standard form boosts the academic activities andattracts users to the library Same is expected of theological libraries.

Facilities provision in libraries differs from one library to another ForUniversity libraries, for example, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign(2012), writes that facilities provided by the library for its users are: repair,moving, communication, microform readers and security system For NanyangTechnological University (NTU, 2012), the library is equipped with the followingfacilities to serve users: photocopying, network printing, faxing, and scanning,NTU wireless, computers, microfilm readers and printers Other facilities includelearning commons study rooms and instructional facilities The library alsoprovides users with study carrels as well as ample and conducive study spaces InCamden Theological Library (2012), facilities include: Study areas, computingInternet access, Microsoft (Ms) office, printing, Internet explorer (IE), Adobereader, USB ports, for USB flash drives), wireless access, laptop for loan,photocopying and printing, and bindery Facilities in John Kinder TheologicalLibrary (2012) include provision of Akomanga (information commons) for onlinelearning-Internet access, Microsoft office suite, endnote software, living liturgy,Bible works The Whariki (group study or meeting room) provides audio-visual

conferencing facilities, projectors and smart board for presentations, while the AhoMara ma, (a place of quiet reflection, contemplation and deep thought) is used forconsultation of archives and special materials Other facilities are microfilmreaders for research purposes In Nigeria the conventional library comprises ofdifferent components, these components are regarded as the facilities that assist inthe smooth organization of the library In the view of the researcher these facilitiesinclude reading space, shelves, cataloguing tools, bindery unit, circulation desk,audio visual, and computers Others are workroom, offices, reading tables andchairs and availability of rest rooms (toilets) These facilities would be bettermanaged, if there are effective human resources in the library.

Human resources are the backbone for the operation and effective services inany library According to Trustees of Indiana University (2012), human resourcesdevelop strategies and service to ensure the availability of highly motivated, wellqualified, and customer- oriented library staff and operations of the library YaleUniversity Library (2012) provides clients (both internal and external) withcomprehensive, customer driven human resources service that support the missionand vision of the library as well as that of the university These services include:recruitment, retention, job placement, staff and labour relations, organizationdevelopment, training, reward and recognition, professional development,compensation, risk management and regulatory compliance

Financial resources constitute a very vital aspect of every academicinstitution, including theological institutions Running of higher institutions worldover is capital intensive, more so, they are very expensive to run In the view ofKafang (2009), fundraising has become a very important component of theologicalinstitutions for the purpose of survival, expansion, development, reducingdependency and sustainability He further stressed that sources of funding intheological institutions in Nigeria and their libraries are school fees, grants fromthe proprietor, support from local churches and denominations, donations orsupport from groups and individuals, support or grants from government,scholarships or assistance from Non- Governmental Organizations (NGOs) Othersources are missionary support, contribution from alumni, students’ initiatives,occasional support from staff, grant from international sources includinginternational foundations, mainline and nondenominational churches overseas.However, for a theological library the primary financial supporters are those whoconsider the institution to be their own (Hardy, 2007) This is part of ownership asthey work with the institution to achieve financial viability and stability Thesesupporters include: alumni, mission organizations, Christian organizations, localchurches, foundations, business community, government and friends of theinstitution.

Collections of theological libraries as provided by International Federation

of Library Associations and Institutes (IFLA) in Lynch (1987) specify that: “a

library’s collection shall be of sufficient size and quality to support the institutionsand reference needs, and as applicable to facilitate research programmes”.Library’s collection should include required and assigned readings, reference andbibliographic materials, basic journals and serials, as well as any other librarymaterials; students are expected to consult regularly in the course of their studies orwhile researching for their projects, theses and dissertations The library shallformulate a written development policy, which will provide guidelines for theselection and retention of materials This policy statement and accompanyingdocuments shall be subject to periodic review On the other hand American NewZealand Theological Library Association (ANZTLA, 2012) stipulates librarycollections to include: Collection development policy which shall be used as aplanning tool and as a public document; it becomes a communication device toassist in the rationalization and sharing of resources with other libraries Thelibrarian shall be responsible for the management and development of collectionswithin the terms of this policy Collections shall comprise all types of recordedinformation including print and non-print materials, with access to electronicdatabases, CD-ROMS and other electronic forms The library shall catalogue,classify and organize items according to professionally approved standards Thelibrary shall cooperate with other libraries in sensibly rationalizing collectiondevelopment, in sharing information and in appropriate forms of networking.These specifications will serve as a guide to examine the practice in the various

institutions covered in this study and they are a combination of quantitative andqualitative considerations

Collection based assessment deals with the collection resources in anylibrary, while user-centred deals with assessment by users of the library collection.This study focused on collection-based and user-based methods of assessment Theresearch also highlighted on the standard for theological libraries in developedcountries as stipulated by IFLA and ANZTLA Assessment can be accomplishedvia direct observation, one-to-one interviews, focus groups, written surveys andonline surveys The best results are likely to be obtained with some combination ofthe above (Skyes, 2007) Information needs assessment study are valuable when acatalyst is needed for making major changes in information handling practices,where there are complaints about any aspect of information services and it islearned that information being delivered is not meeting needs of the targetaudience as stressed by Skyes When viewing, evaluating or analyzing a library,the size, adequacy, and accessibility of its collections are the indexes mostly used(Biddle, 1992) Collection size and adequacy are measured in several ways Theyare also measured in absolute numbers (how many titles, how many volumes, howmany current periodical subscriptions, how much is spent on new titles andsubscriptions each year) in relative terms (how do the holdings of, and additions to,library A compare to libraries B, C, and D), and in terms of accepted standards (towhat extent do the holdings and growth figures of library A meet the standards

recommended by various institutes) This view of Biddle was utilized to assess thelibrary resources in the target population of this study

Theological education in North Central States of Nigeria has its history rightback to 1934 with the establishment of Gindiri Bible School by Church of Christ inNations (COCIN) The school is now Gindiri College of Theology This wasfollowed by Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA) Theological Seminary,Igbaja in 1941 Then came the multi-denominational Theological College ofNorthern Nigeria (TCNN) in 1954 first at Gindiri and later moved to its presentand permanent site at Bukuru in the early sixties Next was United MissionaryChurch of Africa Theological College (UMCATC) in 1956 first established atJebba before it was later moved to Ilorin Other Theological institutions in theCentral States of Nigeria came into existence after Nigeria gained herindependence in 1960 Being academic centres, such institutions are expected toprovide an effective and conducive learning environment, which includes a library.With the history of the establishment of theological colleges in Nigeria dating back

to the colonial era, it is assumed that libraries of such institutions will serve as amodel to newly established institutions and professional bodies that started afterNigeria gained her independence in 1960 Akintunde (2002) is of the view thatthose who pass through theological institutions have historically been accordedsome respect in the matters of external choices in the lives of many, and can aswell influence others for the use of the library, in search of truth and knowledge

Religion plays many roles in human life and in the life of societies It alsohas great influence on culture, the meaning of life, moral guidelines, support fordaily living and at special times of crises and celebration It teaches people certainvalues and possesses a high degree of power on individuals It can have negative aswell as positive consequences on individuals and the society In view of theimportance of religion in any society and for Nigeria as a pluralistic society, it isvery relevant to have well informed, religious leaders of high quality Suchreligious leaders are the foundation to a morally sound society; they are supposed

to be educated in an effective and conducive learning environment with adequatelearning resources that will make them adequately equip with knowledge, skillsand wisdom These resources should be found in theological libraries

However, the academic level in most theological institutions in Nigeria andAfrica in general is adversely affected, according to Kafang(2009), by lack ofbooks and standard libraries The researcher’s intensive search work in differentlibraries and Internet reveal that most research work in librarianship are mostly inthe fields of academic, school, public, national libraries but few in special librariesespecially on the assessment of library resources in theological libraries in NorthCentral States of Nigeria, hence there is gap in the literature Basically theologicalinstitutions require balanced and adequate library resources to help support the

training and to produce the right calibre of religious personnel in the society Ifthere is no effective learning environment for faculty members and students intheological institutions in North Central States of Nigeria For instance, if librarymaterials are deficient, outdated, and insufficient, then products of such institutionscannot effectively play their role in the society because of the weak foundation.

Consequently the danger of poor library resources in theological institutionswill deny students and faculty members materials that will assist them in preparingtheir lectures, assignments, examinations, sermons and conference papers If suchleaders are apathetic, uncommitted, uninspired, without a reading culture, then thewhole society is doomed, especially if they are ignorant in their disciplines andimpart wrong knowledge, then they become not only useless but dangerous It is inthe light of this that a study of this nature is not only relevant but also necessary,given the crucial role of religion in Nigerian society It is very important to identifythe current status of theological institutions’ libraries, problems of providingbalanced library resources Besides, the study proffer as well as solutions about theneed to provide effective library resources Furthermore, the study identifies theproblem: do theological libraries provide adequate, effective and current librarymaterials, facilities, qualified personnel and funding to attract their customers tothe use of the libraries in the North Central States of Nigeria? It is the aboveproblem that forms the focus of this research

Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this study is to assess the state of library resources intheological institutions in North Central States of Nigeria Specifically, the studyaims at:

1) Determining the sources and adequacy of funding theological libraries inNorth Central states of Nigeria

2) Determining the print and electronic resources in theological libraries

3) Identifying the library facilities in theological libraries in North Centralstates of Nigeria

4) Identifying the level of human resources provision in theological libraries inNorth Central States of Nigeria

5) Determining the extent that the collections cover the curricula of theologicalinstitutions

6) Determining the challenges to library resource provision in theologicallibraries

Research Questions

In order to have thorough understanding of the effects of library resources

on theological education, this research will provide answers to the followingquestions

1 What are the sources and adequacy of funding theological libraries intheological institutions in North Central states of Nigeria?

2 What print and electronic resources are available in theological libraries?

3 What library facilities are available in theological libraries in North Centralstates of Nigeria?

4 What human resources are provided in theological institutions in NorthCentral states of Nigeria?

5 To what extent does the collection covers the curriculum of theologicallibraries?

6 What are the challenges for library resource provision in theologicallibraries?

Significance of the Study

Researchers in the field of theology, religion, librarianship, proprietors oftheological institutions in different denominations and the management team oftheological institutions like the provosts, registrars, bursars, librarians, students oftheology and also those concerned with quality of education in theologicaleducation need to be aware of problems connected with theological librariesthrough researches like this This study will provide essential source material toenable them take more appropriate steps towards arresting the obstacles against theprovision of balanced and up-to-date library resources in theological institutions

Furthermore, the study is significant especially to librarians in theologicalinstitutions From the outcome of this study, it is expected that the variety oflibrary materials available for information needs of students and faculty members

in theological institutions will unearth The recommendation(s) made will enablelibrarians in theological institutions improve their library collections and services

It will also help provosts to provide good leadership that will encourage effectivelibrary resources in their institutions, and registrars to initiate policies that arefriendly to their institutions libraries The study will draw the attention of bursars

in these institutions about the need to release adequate funds for library resourcesand development, and councils of these institutions to find ways to improve theirlibrary resources by providing adequate allocation in the institute’s annual budget.The obvious implication is that students will benefit from the library resources ifimproved and their performances in tests and examinations will be enhanced

This study will also serve as a reference material for future researchers whoare interested in theological librarianship, special libraries, and library resources intheological institutions, and will equally provide a springboard from which similarareas of study could be cited It will also stimulate research interests in this topicand other related topics The study will also guide librarians of theological librariestowards providing solutions to problems, which emanate from their librariesoperating outside the standards meant for such libraries Moreover, the study will

be a useful contribution to the literature in the field of library and information

science, religious studies, theology, curriculum studies, theological librarianshipand information and communication technology Besides, it is hoped that thisresearch work will serve as a guiding document, a useful reference and material fortheological libraries, other libraries, scholars and administrators of theologicalinstitutions in developing countries The conceptual and theoretical frameworkdiscussed in the literature review is significant for future researchers as a referencepoint.

Scope of the Study

The main concern of this study is to assess library resources in theologicalinstitutions in North Central States of Nigeria, comprising six states namely:Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nassarawa, Niger and Plateau The library resources in thiscontext are materials (including printed and electronics), facilities, personnel andfunding in these institutions The study is concerned with Christian theologicalinstitutions in the North Central States of Nigeria The population scope is thelibrary staff and users of theological libraries

CHAPTER TWO REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The purpose of this section is to review the literature that is directly related

to the problem of this study In undertaking this review we shall dwell basically on:

Conceptual Framework;

Library and Theological Libraries,

Funding of Theological Libraries,

Printed and Electronic Resources,

Facilities of Theological Libraries,

Human Resources of Theological Libraries,

Curriculum and Theological Library’s Collection,

Standards and Techniques for Assessing Library Collection

Theoretical framework;

Review of empirical studies; and

Summary of literature reviewed.

Conceptual Framework

Library and Theological Libraries

The word library is defined by different scholars, depending on theframework of their perception The Encyclopedia of Library and InformationScience (2003) defined library as an organization or a system designed to preserve

and facilitate the use of graphic records The Encyclopedia Britannica (2005)viewed libraries as store houses for books and periodicals, but this was only in the

1st to mid- 20th centuries With changes in the role of the libraries as the heart ofinformation, knowledge and education, such a definition is not accepted in the 21st

century According to Compton Encyclopedia (2004) and New StandardEncyclopedia (2005), library is a pivot of socio-economic and politicaldevelopment The power of the library lies in its resources and physical parameters

of its environment The library is an organized institution of learning that isintimately linked to its environment It is the only institution that shares,contributes and functions as a developmental process and artifacts and historicaldocuments (Achebe, 2008)

In stressing the role of the libraries in educational development, Achebeinsists that both students and lecturers benefit significantly from all types oflibraries because these libraries encourage and foster free choice of reading andresearch materials; they provide linkage opportunities between scholars and theircultural environment; enhance readership and economic development in a country;foster knowledge creation and knowledge society; and provide positive changes instudents’ academic life The library provides the websites and resources for theexchange of information and education within the network of higher institutions

A special library is the type of library that serves a specialized group ofusers According to Achebe (2008) special libraries have similar features withresearch libraries; these two are often mistaken for one another and usedinterchangeably However, special libraries usually contain material for a narrowfield but their collections are built in depth, covering details of the materials ofspecific discipline content This explains why theological libraries are consideredspecial libraries because they acquire process and organize materials that are linked

to the discipline of theology The theological library throughout its history hasbeen a place of solace and respite as well as energy and new life It is inextricablylinked to the development of theological education and is therefore an integral part

of the ministry of the church With a responsibility to collect, preserve anddisseminate the collective stories of believers, the theological library will continue

to exist and progress as long as there is desire to connect with the Divine (Mitchell,2005)

In the view of Peterson (1984), theological libraries will serve substantiallynew or different roles in the foreseeable future Such libraries represent thehistorical breadth of theological thought and religious practice for the benefit ofcontemporary scholarship and education for ministry of the church Theologicallibraries preserve the intellectual diversity, both past and present of theology.Libraries in theological institutions support the instructional curriculum; nurtureresearch and fresh understanding of religious thought and practice Peterson has

also expressed the view that collectively, theological libraries are the stewards formuch if not most of the religious documentation which will be acquired andpreserved for the use of future generations of scholars and theological educators.

Characteristics of Theological Libraries

Mitchell (2005) cited Gapp as defining a theological library as a collection

of religious and non-religious books and non-book materials, well selected,properly classified and catalogued, embracing within its scope a good collection ofreference books and indexes, competently staffed, and designed to serve theresearch, educational, religious, and the experimental needs of the seminarycommunity He also stressed the relevance and nexus of the library to theseminary, which includes the provision of collection to students and the facultymembers The end result is that curricula of the seminary and the pedagogicalmethods used have impact on the kind of resources acquired by the library This isrecognized as a vital part of the theological institution’s educational and spiritualministry Theological libraries, for the purpose of this study, are those librariesaffiliated with degree and diploma awarding academic institutions training students

in theology It is also assumed that these academic institutions are well articulatedand with a purpose or mission to train their students to be effective ministers(competent in such areas as teaching, counseling, and pastoring) The obviousimplication is that the resources of such a library must reflect the basic needs of the

organization and the entire users It therefore provides resources for the study ofdoctrinal teachings, religious history, devotional materials and curricular content.

ANZTLA (2000) has drawn attention to the general objectives fortheological libraries which must necessarily involve the ability to acquire resources

in the fields of religion, theology and related areas, to organize and maintain them,

to promote their effective use by the faculty, the institution’s support staff, studentsand members of the wider community; and as applicable, to facilitate access toinformation at remote sites In the opinion of Newhall (1970) the library is centre

of service to the community of users and an integral part of the total theologicalprogramme, not a side issue or an added appendage

Hunter (2005) in his study has demonstrated that the objectives of WhitneyCollege (a theological institution) library in supporting the overall mission of thecollege The study also shows that the library is established to acquire, organizeand maintain high quality resources, in both print and electronic format in the field

of biblical studies, theology, church history, pastoral theology and related areasand to promote their most effective use by faculty, students and members of thecollege community But more than this the library is to support the teachingprogrammes of the Evangelical Theological Association (ETA), providing for theinformation needs of students doing the theological studies at undergraduate level(a wide range of subjects in some depth) and students undertaking research atpostgraduate level (in selected subject fields); to provide library resources to

support the teaching and research needs of the collection Its other objectives are toprovide basic resources for residential students and to support a variety ofdisciplines Others include the provision of resources to support the ministerialdevelopment of the institutions staff, students as well as interested ministers andlay people, and lastly to acquire and preserve resources on the history and currentstate of the denomination The above objectives of Whitney College are quiterelevant for the current study for it will serve as a springboard to the researchwork.

The truth is that for a library to function properly the internal administrativeorganization of the library should bring together its various materials- human,financial, technical and resources- and coordinate them effectively to accomplishits objectives Organization and structure of the library as well as its administrativeprocess should be well defined, documented and understood with the place of thelibrary within the governance structure of the institution defined clearly Thelibrary’s major policies and procedures should be defined, recorded in writtenform, made readily available, and reviewed regularly while a library committeeshould advise on matters pertaining to the budget and policies for collectiondevelopment and use The librarian should be a member of the teaching faculty andshould be involved in all decision-making affecting the administration anddevelopment of the library There should also be an advisory committee, chaired

by the librarian and comprising certain members of the faculty, the student body

and the library staff This committee should act as a channel of communicationbetween the library and its user community.

A theological library consists of materials gathered to meet the needs of theindividual users of the library It provides resources for the study of doctrinalteachings, religious history, devotional materials and curricula not generally found

in the local public library It is recognized as a vital part of the institutionseducational and spiritual ministry Its selection of materials can help clarify anddeepen the layperson’s understanding of his or her religious heritage and itsmeaning in life (Ashworth, 1979) Therefore, it implies the resources of such alibrary must reflect the basic needs of the organization

There is also the human resources and development department Resourcesconsist of the personnel or staff (characterized by skill level, educationalqualifications, and capability to conduct library operations); facilities (includingequipment) that can be allocated to library programmes; financial assets other thanallocations to the library by the parent organization, including endowments andassets and liabilities directly attributable to the library; and information resources(the library collection) (Brown, 1980) In the view of Brown (1980), it is notenough to count resources – to describe the collection resources, for example, only

in terms of money and size It is much more desirable to assess both thequantitative and qualitative aspects of the collection Resources should bemeasured as to their extent, breath, and depth, and along a variety of dimensions

related to the needs of the environment The literature identifies several significantdimensions, qualitative and quantitative, useful in measuring the collection

If theological institutions are to measure up to historical antecedents, theyare expected to provide leadership in providing quality education that will beevident by the collection in their libraries and the general quality of the libraryitself After all, Christianity along with Judaism and Islam, is a religion of the book(Ladale, 2003), which implies more intellectual works in circulation

Standards for theological libraries

A standard is a model to be followed or initiated and established by customand consent; a degree of quality (The New Lexicon Webster’s Dictionary of theEnglish Language, 2011) Gates (1990) posited that standards are criteria that areestablished by authority or by general consent as a measure or test of the quantity

or quality of a given thing Standards point out a condition or degree or level,which must be attained if a desired goal is to be realized and are designed to setand maintain a high level of professional performance Early standards inlibrarianship were quantitative, measuring such tangible elements as physicalfacilities, staff, budgets and collections However, in this new millennium