The Role of Academic Library Support in Digital Transformation at Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo

Abstract

Digital transformation is reshaping academic library operations, information access, research support and learning. For newly established institutions, however, the transition may begin from predominantly manual library operations and progress gradually as infrastructure, staffing and institutional capacity develop. This study examines the role of Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo Library in supporting research and learning during this transition, with particular attention to electronic-resource services, user-support strategies, implementation challenges and future readiness. The study adopts a qualitative institutional case-study approach based on the authors’ firsthand professional observations and experiences as library staff, complemented by relevant library and institutional documentation from the establishment of the Polytechnic in 2021 to date. This study highlights that the Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo Library has a dedicated building, print and electronic information resources, user-education activities and academic-support practices, yet it relies on predominantly manual procedures on some of its operations. Although computers, projectors and other electronic equipment are available, unreliable electricity and the absence of internet connectivity within the library limits their effective and sustained utilization, thereby delaying the full implementation of library automation. Library staff continue to support research and learning through sensitisation, orientation, departmental collaboration, assignment supports. The study argues that digital transformation should be understood as a phased institutional process rather than the mere acquisition of electronic resources.