USE OF CLOUD COLLABORATIVE TOOLS BY LIBRARIANS IN ACADEMIC UNIVERSITIES: THE LASU LIBRARY EXPERIENCE

Abstract

Cloud collaborative tools are increasingly transforming how academic activities are carried out, including library service delivery. In Nigerian academic libraries, adoption of these tools is growing, but issues of access and effective use by librarians remain a concern. The study employed a descriptive survey design. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to professional and para-professional library staff of Lagos State University and analysed with descriptive statistics. Results showed that cloud collaborative tools such as WhatsApp, Google Workspace, Zoom, Yahoo Mail, Telegram, and Microsoft 365 were the most frequently used. Library staff utilized these tools for knowledge sharing, contribution to professional development, awareness of trends in the profession, membership in academic bodies, social interactions, and the delivery of library services. High data costs, information integrity, message overload, and constant expectations of availability were identified as significant challenges. Social anxiety and technological skills were regarded as minor challenges to the use of these tools by library staff. Cloud collaborative tools enhance productivity, professional development, and cooperation among library staff, despite existing challenges. The study recommends improved institutional support, across-board digital literacy training, and strengthened internet infrastructure to promote effective adoption and sustained use of cloud collaborative tools in Nigerian academic libraries.