DEPARTMENT OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
Abstract
One of the repercussions of the library service that is always expanding is the use of cloud computing services. It is an improvement that facilitates library staff’s work in providing services. Cloud-based services are those that handle applications through the sharing of cloud resources as opposed to local servers or personal devices. The use of cloud computing in library services has a huge positive impact on the services provided overall. As a whole, the application is significant or necessary for any library that aims to continuously manage the constantly shifting information needs of its patrons. The primary barrier to cloud computing adoption in most libraries is its expensive setup costs. However, because cloud computing services are dynamic, they can be innovative drivers of library service in developing nations where funding scarcity is a problem. The staff at libraries is aware of and makes use of cloud-based library services.
A descriptive survey research design was used in the study. Two hundred (200) University of Ilorin undergraduate students made up the study’s population. The Application and Usage of Cloud Computing for Library Service (AAUCCLS) questionnaire.
The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 software was used to analyze the data.
Keywords: Cloud computing, Application, undergraduate students, Library service.
CHAPTER ONE
Introduction
1.1 Background to the study
Since its launch in 2007, cloud computing has become a rapidly expanding field in the technological paradigm. Its application and usage have been extremely persistent. Cloud computing is a collection of network-enabled services that share resources via a network, which is an end-to-end terminal. It is predicated on the rapid advancement and integration of computer technology, including large memory, fast networks, and microprocessors (Steve, 2018).
The use of cloud computing for library services is still in its early stages; because to its demanding nature, only a small number of libraries are now able to implement it. Cloud computing is a technology that allows people to access systems and applications that are transparently controlled, even without prior expertise or experience. One of the most significant contemporary strategies that directly aims to improve library services is the usage and deployment of cloud computing in libraries. Cloud computing, according to Hamzat, Zubairu, and Akiola (2021), is an innovation of computing services provided over the Internet by providing a common pool of resources that help people access their own corporate use of the data. Consequently, cloud-based services give businesses a means of exchanging services and resources (Onwubiko, Okorie & Onu, 2021). Thus, by utilizing computers and their associated devices, library staff members can leverage ICTs to further their efforts in linking library patrons to cloud-based information resources (Wada, 2018). Consequently, the library is able to serve a larger number of users thanks to cloud-based services.
Globally, libraries and information hubs must contend with the difficulties of expansion and development. The use of cloud computing in library services has reduced these growth and development obstacles; with the correct use, libraries may provide their patrons with faster and better service. Technology and timely information have played a major role in the expansion of libraries in the Western world. Libraries throughout the world are relying more and more on information technology in recent times, especially cloud computing, as the services it provides are always being improved. Eric (2020) To put it simply, cloud computing is the practice of accessing and storing data and programs online rather than on your computer’s hard drive.
Experts surmise that the advantages of cloud computing applications for librarians predate the general public’s widespread adoption of the notion by computer and internet users. Many libraries rely on software that is placed on distant servers to carry out cataloging and classification tasks. It’s also important to remember that using cloud computing for library services involves a number of stages and procedures that need to be carefully considered.According to Benlian et al. (2018), cloud computing is a paradigm that has emerged in information technology to provide access to computer resources. It has since grown to be a popular business approach for providing IT applications, components, and infrastructure. By lowering the barrier to entry for higher performance computing, it enables businesses to take use of processing capacity that they would not otherwise be able to afford or gain through operational experience or capital budget (Arasaratnam 2011). Different researchers have given different meanings to cloud computing. According to Bharadwaj et al. (2013), cloud computing accelerates digital transformation, upends established business models, and speeds up industry dynamics. According to his studies, cloud computing and its use in industrial processes help with digital transformation. Hess and associates (2016) Overcoming early reservations, cloud computing has developed into an essential IT infrastructure for practically all facets of daily life, and it will continue to transform our world in a variety of ways and at different levels. Mell and Grance (2011) Through the metered service of cloud computing, people and companies may access IT resources whenever they need them, from any device, at any time. The previous ten years have seen a considerable influence from cloud computing, and it is unquestionably worthwhile for every industry and organization to adopt and use it. The manner that IT services are created, developed, implemented, scaled, updated, maintained, and paid for has altered as a result of cloud computing (Marston et al. 2011). According to Ranger (2018), cloud computing is the pay-as-you-go, mostly Internet-based provision of on-demand computing services, ranging from storage and processing power to apps.
ENISA (2012) An on-demand service paradigm for IT provision, cloud computing frequently leverages distributed computing and virtualization technologies. Every aspect of human life has benefited from the adoption of cloud computing technologies. Financial services organizations, for instance, leverage cloud computing to improve real-time fraud detection and prevention. Cloud computing technology is being used in healthcare to provide patients with individualized care (Gogia, 2020). Because it is more affordable, has infinite storage capacity, and can solve a variety of IT-related problems, it has consequently become a vital tool in businesses (Sangaiah & Muhammad, 2019). According to Tuncay (2015), libraries can gain from cloud computing services in a number of ways, including enhanced computing performance, cost savings, expanded accessibility, and massively scalable and elastic storage capacity.
Knot (2016) asserts that technology and the Internet in general have a significant role in the growth of library services and information centers as well as the creation of new ones. When used properly, cloud computing will benefit libraries everywhere. Libraries are currently expanding quickly within a prestigious technical sector. The development of cloud computing has allowed libraries to expand and utilize resources more effectively and quickly. The use of cloud computing in libraries has significantly enhanced the quality of those services; more patrons are receiving hourly responses to their inquiries; and library users are able to access information via cloud computing-based services like email from any location.
One of the seven (7) universities established by the military order in 1975 is the University of Ilorin. The Kwara State Polytechnic’s temporary “mini campus,” where the university first stood, was formerly home to some students. The University of Ilorin Library was established concurrently with the institution. The Main Library at the permanent location, the College Library at Oke-Oyi in the College of Health Sciences, and the Law Library in the Faculty of Law on the university’s main campus make up the University of Ilorin Library system. As a result, the library opened in May 1976. Mr. B. A. Oni Orisan served as the first university librarian. He started working in August 1976. The university’s website, https://www.unilorin.edu.ng/index.php/about-us, is where all of the data were taken from.
1.2 Statement of the problem
According to Hersh W. (2020), there are a number of reasons why cloud computing cannot be deemed the most successful service for distributing information among undergraduate students, including unstable power supplies, poor internet access, and a lack of government funding for technology and education. Undergraduate students’ ability to successfully use cloud computing services at the library is hampered by this aspect alone. These elements rely on society’s conformity to demonstrate their value rather than being self-sufficient. It is important to remember that while the aforementioned characteristics are relevant in industrialized countries, they are not applicable in those that are not. Several cloud computing services have been used by the university library for the consistent use of its undergraduate students; however, a number of known and unknown variables prevent the application from being fully utilized. Similarly, empirical data demonstrates the reason university undergraduate students choose cloud computing appliances.
African society is still struggling to overcome the harsh obstacle of cloud computing service pricing forgeries and complaints. According to Hole (2016), there is ongoing study being done on the topic of using cloud computing in telecom networks. The library is vulnerable to cyberattacks and threats due to the use and usage of cloud computing. Although most businesses using cloud computing services have well-spelled logins and passwords, in certain circumstances this is insufficient to deter hackers, who may include undergraduate students. In light of this, the study’s objective is to analyze how cloud computing is applied and used to provide undergraduate students at the University of Ilorin with library services. It does this by offering specific cloud-based software that can assist in avoiding the difficulties associated with using cloud computing services in libraries.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The sole objective of the research is to ascertain the application and usage of cloud computing for undergraduate students in the University library. The objectives of the research are:
- Determine the level of awareness of the undergraduate students of the University of Ilorin to cloud computing.
- Find out how convenient it is for undergraduate students of the University of Ilorin to make use of cloud computing implements in the Library.
- Find out which of the cloud computing applications is mostly used among Saunder et al., (2012), undergraduate students of the University of Ilorin library.
- Ascertain how cloud computing appliances of the University of Ilorin Library have helped undergraduate students
- find out the challenges students face in accessing and using cloud computing appliances in the University of Ilorin library.
- Find out why students of the University of Ilorin make use of cloud computing appliances in the Library.
1.4 Research Questions
This study is literally set up to provide or proffer adequate answers to the under-listed research questions:
- What is the level of awareness of the application and usage of cloud computing by undergraduate students of the University of Ilorin?
- How easy is it to make use of cloud Computing appliances by Undergraduate students of the University of Ilorin when they use the library?
- Which of the cloud computing appliances is most appreciated for use by undergraduate students in the University of Ilorin Library?
- In what way has the application and usage of cloud computing in the university library contributed to the academic performance of undergraduates in the university?
- What challenges do undergraduates undergo while using cloud computing appliances in the library?
- Why do undergraduate students of the University of Ilorin use cloud computing appliances in the library?
1.5 Significance of the Research
The University of Ilorin serves as a case study for higher education institutions, and this research will help determine the applicability and utilization of cloud computing in these settings. Determining the usefulness of cloud computing for academic sustainability and how its application might benefit students academically will also be aided by it. The study is important since it offers a set of anticipated additions that could help scholars in the subject and pursue their goals at all levels. The research project will also assist in determining the significance of cloud computing application and usage in libraries, particularly in responding to inquiries from University of Ilorin undergraduate students. In general, the study project will assist in determining the functions that cloud computing applications play in providing library patrons with solutions to their questions. It is necessary to determine which cloud computing apps are often used in the library. Additionally, this research will offer a way to carry out other studies in the area of cloud computing in general.
1.6 Scope and Limitations of the Research
The study thoroughly investigates the uses and applications of cloud computing in the University of Ilorin library’s provision of library services to undergraduate students. Every day, the popularity of cloud computing increases, and many businesses have adapted by making room for it. As a result, the researcher uses the campus of Ilorin undergraduate population as a great case study, keeping its scope limited to the campus library.
1.7 Operational definition of terms
- Cloud computing: The term “cloud computing” describes the use of the Internet to provide various services and facilities, such as databases, servers, storage, and applications. Cloud computing is a kind of internet-based computing where a sizable number of geographically dispersed computers are networked together to share data processing chores, store data centrally, and provide online access to computer services and resources.
- Application: Using something is defined as “the act of putting something into use” by the Merriam-Webster dictionary.
- Usage: It is described as “a firmly established and generally accepted practice or procedure” in the Merriam-Webster dictionary.
- Library service: Direct services provided by libraries include helping users with the library and its resources, finding and searching for documents, providing quick and long-term references, searching the literature, and creating bibliographies.
- Undergraduate Students: A university student who has not yet earned their first degree is known as an undergraduate. Also referred to as a college or university student who has not yet earned a bachelor’s degree. (primary level)
