International Journal of Multidisciplinary Engineering Sciences | Volume 1 Issue 2 | Pages: 13-20 | Doi : 10.67914/ijmes/rsa/1.2/13-20

Research Article

OPEN ACCESS | Published on : 27-Aug-2026

Adoption of Emerging Technologies for Knowledge Management in Academic Libraries in North-East Nigeria

Shamsu Dauda Ringim
• Library and Information Science, Federal Polytecnic Kaltungo, Gombe State, Nigeria.

Aliyu Umar
• Library and Information Science, Federal Polytecnic Kaltungo, Gombe State, Nigeria.


• Aminu Adamu Ahmed
• Department of Information Communication Technology, Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo, Gombe State, Nigeria

Abstract

The adoption of emerging technologies for knowledge management (KM) in academic libraries presents significant opportunities for enhancing information organisation, dissemination, and institutional memory preservation, particularly in resource-constrained regions such as North-East Nigeria. This study investigated the adoption of emerging technologies for knowledge management in academic libraries in the North-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, targeting 389 library professionals across 18 academic libraries (universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education) in the six states of the zone. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire (Cronbach's α = 0.88) and analysed using SPSS version 29 for descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA, and SmartPLS version 4 for PLS-SEM path modelling. Python 3.11 generated supplementary visualisations. Findings indicated moderate overall technology adoption (Grand Mean = 3.72), with cloud computing (Mean = 4.38) and digital repository systems (Mean = 4.21) as the most adopted technologies. Knowledge management benefits were highly perceived (Grand Mean = 4.32), while barriers were equally prevalent (Grand Mean = 4.37), with poor ICT infrastructure (Mean = 4.63) and inadequate funding (Mean = 4.58) as the foremost impediments. SmartPLS SEM confirmed that technology readiness significantly predicted ET adoption (β = 0.623, t = 13.84, p < 0.001), which in turn predicted KM effectiveness (β = 0.587, p < 0.001). One-way ANOVA revealed significant adoption differences by designation (F (3,385) = 21.38, p < .001). The study recommends technology readiness programmes, institutional KM policy formulation, and consortium-based infrastructure investment.

Keywords

Emerging Technologies, Knowledge Management, Academic Libraries, North-East Nigeria, SmartPLS, Cloud Computing

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