Leadership Roles in Building Resilient University Libraries and a Sustainable Workforce for Enhanced Education in Nigeria

Autori

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.12775/FT.2025.005

Parole chiave

Higher education, Leadership, Organizational performance, Resilience, Workforce development, University libraries

Abstract

University libraries are pivotal in fostering dynamic and resilient academic environments by facilitating effective learning, teaching and research endeavours. However, the ability of these libraries to fulfil their mandate hinges significantly on visionary leadership. Drawing from the insights of Michael Gibbson and contemporary leadership theories, this article explores the critical role of leadership in enhancing the resilience and relevance of university libraries in Nigeria. It scrutinizes the challenges posed by ineffective leadership, which often stems from issues such as ethnic patronage and compromised selection processes. Moreover, it underscores the necessity for proactive leadership that can navigate the complex terrain of university politics and resource allocation to bolster library collections and services. By examining the relationship between leadership styles and organizational culture, the article emphasizes the importance of cultivating a supportive work environment that fosters innovation and customer satisfaction. Furthermore, it advocates for continuous training and development initiatives to equip library leaders and their staff with the necessary skills to adapt to evolving demands and technologies. The article provides valuable insights for policymakers, administrators and practitioners seeking to strengthen the resilience and efficacy of academic libraries’ leadership in Nigeria and beyond.

Biografie autore

Oluwatoyin Obinyan, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria

Oluwatoyin Oyeyemi Obinyan is a Senior Librarian and head Law Library in Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria. She has wealth of experience in electronic resources management and Library management spanning over ten years. She is an expert in Information literacy, E-Resources Management, medical Informatics, Legal Resources management and Collection Building. She holds a Ph.D, M.Sc., B.LIS, and Diploma in Library and Information Science. Dr. (Mrs) Oluwatoyin Obinyan has made notable contributions to the field through the publication of several articles in both local and international journals. Additionally, she serves as an adjourn lecturer in the Department of Library and Information Science at the Ambrose Alli University. She is certified by the Librarians’ Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN) & Association of Cyber Security Practitioners. She is an active member of the Nigerian Library Association (NLA), American Library Association (ALA), among others. She can be reached via email at obinyantoyin@aauekpoma.edu.ng

Gabriel Aine Obinyan, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria

Gabriel Aine Obinyan is an Associate Professor of Library and Information Science in the Department of Library and Information Science, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria. He has attended several national and international conferences. He is widely published with articles in local and international peer-reviewed journals and has several chapter contributions to books. His areas of specialisation include Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Information Science, Publishing Studies, Knowledge Management, Library Management. Asso. Prof Gabriel Obinyan can be reached at obinyan.gab@aauekpoma.edu.ng

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Pubblicato

2025-11-04

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Obinyan, O., & Obinyan, G. A. (2025). Leadership Roles in Building Resilient University Libraries and a Sustainable Workforce for Enhanced Education in Nigeria. Folia Toruniensia, 25, 99–115. https://doi.org/10.12775/FT.2025.005

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V. 25 (2025)

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Articles

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