International Journal of Knowledge Content Development & Technology
[ Article ]
International Journal of Knowledge Content Development & Technology - Vol. 14, No. 1, pp.10-10
ISSN: 2234-0068 (Print) 2287-187X (Online)
Print publication date 31 Mar 2023
Online publication date 18 Jul 2024

Awareness and Application of Internet of Things in Universities Libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria

Saliu Abdulfatai*
*Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti state, Nigeria Saliu.abdulfatai025@gmail.com

Abstract

The study was conducted on the awareness and application of internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria. the study formulated used four research questions and used eighty five (85) samples as the population using total enumerative sampling techniques. A survey method was used in undertaking the study, in which answers were sought on the level of awareness of the internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State, the extent of application of the internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State, the benefit of internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State, the challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State. The data collected from the study were analyzed using frequency tables and percentage. The study discovered that there the students are aware of the internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State and the benefit of internet of a things include: Device in the IoT platforms are heterogeneous and are based on different hardware platforms and networks, It gives the high level of interoperability and interconnectivity, IoT platform has sensors which detect or measure any changes in the environment to generate data that can report on their status or even interact with the environment, IoT comes with the combination of algorithms and computation, software & hardware that makes it smart and Anything can be interconnected with the global information and communication infrastructure and the study identified data interpretation problem, Lack of skilled and specialized workers, Cost and Challenges in online security as well as Software complexity are major challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State. In conclusion the study made some recommendations which include that: Future libraries should be equipped with new technologies and networking devices as soon as possible. As this will be essential for users and librarians to have sufficient knowledge about IOT technologies.

Keywords:

Awareness, Application, Internet of Things, Benefits, Universities, Libraries

1. Introduction

Internet of things (IoT) is a new revolution of the Internet that is rapidly gathering momentum driven by the advancements in sensor networks, mobile devices, wireless communications, networking and cloud technologies (Bahga & Madisetti, 2014). They are interrelated networks that allow devices to receive and send data with each other via Internet. IoT is defined as “a dynamic global network infrastructure with self-configuring capabilities based on standard and interoperable communication protocols where physical and virtual ‘Things’ have identities, physical attributes, and virtual personalities and use intelligent interfaces, and are seamlessly integrated into the information network” (Kranenburg, 2008).

The term IoT was first coined by Kevin Ashton in 1999. Firstly, the term was introduced to describe how IoT was created by adding RFID and other sensors to everyday objects (Simões, Filipe, & Barbosa, 2019). In IoT the things function like smart and living entities by sensing and communicating through embedded devices which interact with sensors. IoT consists of the networks of physical objects, the traditional network of the Internet, and various devices (gateway, border router etc.) that connect these networks (Tkachenko & Brezhniev, 2019). Xu, He, and Li (2014) stated that RFID and WSN are the foundational technologies of IoT and service-oriented architecture as a key technology in integrating heterogeneous systems or devices that can be applied to support IoT. The identification and tracking technologies, communication technologies, networking technologies and service management form the four-layer architecture of IoT (Liang, 2019).

Internet of Things (IoT) is a connection of a wide variety of devices with internet ranging from equipment with sensors (Kreische, Ullrich, & Ziemann, 2015). It is an interrelated embedded system that brings proximity of two technologies which are wireless connectivity and smart sensor. These joined embedded technological systems are based on small microcontroller computers where the human intermediary is not needed. Instead of connecting and interacting with people, these systems have a mechanism of detecting object which is advanced technologically and uses different sensors (Grindvoll, Vermesan, Crosbie, Bahr, Dawood, & Revel, 2012).

The fast-growing network of physical objects offers numerous opportunities for the construction industry and organization despite its barriers to its implementation (World Economic Forum, 2015). Presently, the IoT have become famous and widely spread in its use in different sectors. It was noted that in 2010, over four billion digital and electronic devices are been connected by the internet globally. Cisco Internet Business Solution Group (IBSG) noted that 12 billion devices are been connected in 2015 and were forecasted that 30 billion will be connected this year (Rose, Eldridge, & Chapin, 2015). The usage of IoT is increasing due to the decrease in the prices of the IoT hardware making more users having a wider range of IoT applications.

This represents a compound annual growth rate of 13% and will effectively change the way the university libraries is been executed and how we experience life generally (Chris, 2014) In the university libraries, equipment with sensors gives merit for maintenance, movement and security. When there is an abnormal movement of malfunction of equipment’s it brings signals to the library management which is been rectify quickly (Iwuagwu & Iwuagwu, 2014). The IoT also aids us to know whether machines are off or in operation. With the help of IoT, a sustainable and smart building is enhanced, i.e. building that can conserve energy which reduces the cost spent on the building. IoT enhances the use of prefabricated component which reduces the time used in the completion of the project. These modules connect by the use of IoT sensors attached to them. Also, IoT sensors installed on the wall collect data and analyze the trend and pattern of building usage (Jacqi, 2017). It was noted that IoT influences design production which reduces valuable time and resources that are spent on design.

However, Pujar, and Satyanarayana (2015) observed that in recent times ‘the internet has taken a leap forward from “internet of communication” to “internet of things”, making it possible to connect objects and transfer data with or without human intervention’. The ‘internet of communication’ promoted better communication and improved services, but with some form of human interventions. Herein lies the distinctiveness of the ‘internet of things’ - connecting objects using sensors and networking capabilities with very minimal or no human intervention.

Therefore, Internet of things (IoT) can only be applicable in the libraries if librarians are aware of the existence and have access to them as at when required. Ezema (2018) described awareness as a state of consciousness and purpose. Awareness is the condition of being aware and able to understand what is happening around one (Chinedu, 2019). Awareness depicts a person’s ability to perceive, feel, or be conscious of events or objects. or generally having an idea of the existence of something. Obande (2019) equates awareness with either knowledge, understanding, appreciation or recognition of attention to the perception of something. Omini and Ayanlade (2019) posited that awareness is an essential factor that determines the application of Internet of things (IoT). The extent of awareness of Internet of things (IoT) among librarians will determine the extent to which they utilise it in universities library. Librarians in tertiary institutions are to some extent aware of Internet of things (Iwu-James, Haliso & Ifijeh, 2020).

So therefore, the first IoT application was the Trojan Room coffee maker, which led to the creation of the term IoT. The phrases “Internet” and “Things,” which allude to intelligent devices or objects, are combined to form the phrase “Internet of Things,” often known as IoT. The IoT ecosystem is made up of web-enabled smart gadgets that use integrated systems including processors, sensors, and communication hardware to gather, send, and act on data (Laghari et al., 2021). The IoT refers to the use of intelligently connected devices and systems to collect data from embedded sensors and actuators in machines and other physical objects (GSM Association Copyright, 2014).

The IoT is a global information and knowledge gateway or hub that academic and research institutions can use to their benefit strategically and gain a competitive edge. IoT and associated information technologies are widely employed in a variety of domains, including businesses, manufacturing facilities, and industries, for the sharing, free circulation, and on-demand usage of resources and capabilities (Fei Tao et al., 2014). Healthcare (Karahoca et al., 2018), tourism (Pizam, 2017), education (Lei et al., 2021), food production (EA et al., 2021), transportation (Tahaei et al., 2020), agriculture, and other human endeavors have all benefited from the deployment of IoT. (Haque et al., 2021; Kumar et al., 2021).


2. Statement of the problems

The concept of IoT has not been widely used in the Nigerian construction industry because of the low level of awareness and understanding of the importance and benefit of IoT amongst Nigerian universities (Arowoiya, Oke, Aigbavboa, & Aliu, 2020). This poses a great challenge in the adoption of the Internet of Things in the universities. According to Atzori, Lera, and Morabito (2010), despite the benefits of IoT, this seems advanced and ambiguous to most professionals which makes it invisible to the universities and clients.

Wang, Altaf, Al-Hussein, and Y. Ma. (2018) examined the framework for IoT based shop floor material management system for panelized university libraries and revealed that IoT can capture dynamic data in real-time and effectively synthesize it along the supply chain. Rad and Ahmada (2017) did a systematic review of trends, opportunities, and challenges of IoT in Malaysia. In Nigeria, there are limited studies and usages of IoTs in different areas, even though a lot of studies and usages of IoTs have been carried out in various areas like educational institutions, smart homes, smart cities, public relations firms and agencies (Adejuwon, 2018; Amodu, Omojola, Okorie, Adeyeye, & Adesina, 2019; Iwayemi, 2018; Yusuf, Ifijeh, & Owolabi, 2019). Ndubuaku and Okereafor (2015) noted that Africa has a slow rate in the adoption of IoT compared to other continents, but that Nigeria which has the largest population and economy in Africa has large prospects in IoT if it is effectively implemented. However, in the light of previous research carried out on the IoT, this research work focuses on the Awareness and application of internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria.


3. Objectives of the study

The main objective of this study is to investigate the awareness and application of internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study are to:

  • (1) determine the level of awareness of the internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State;
  • (2) examine the extent of application of the internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State;
  • (3) find out the benefit of internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State; and
  • (4) determine the challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State.

3.1 Research questions

The following research questions guided the study:

  • (1) What are the level of awareness of internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State?
  • (2) What is the extent of application of the internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State?
  • (3) What are the benefit of internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State?
  • (4) What are the challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State?

3.2 Review of Related Literature Concept of internet of things

The concept of “internet of things” was popularize by the Auto - ID centre at Massachusetts institute of technology (MIT) which in 1999 started to design and propagate a cross - company Radio Frequency Identification Infrastructure. Kelvin Ashton one of the founders of the original Auto-ID center is credited as the inventor of the phrase “IOT” while working for the procter and gamble improve supply chain management. He established that if people and objects in daily life were equipped with unique identifiers, then computers could readily manage those using Radio Frequency Identifications, Barcodes, Q R Codes and Watermarks can also be used for machines (Bansal, Arora, & Suri, 2018).

IOT refers to an ecosystem in which application and services are driven by data collected from devices that sense and interface with the physical world. The internet of things devices and objects has common communication connectivity, either a direct connection to the internet or mediated through local or wide areas networks (OECD, 2016). The internet of things exists as part of an emerging technology ecosystem with cloud and big data analytics. Interactions occur among and between people and objects in computer aware environment that can avail themselves of new and innovative services delivered through the cloud and supported by an ever more powerful set of analytical tools.

Patel and Patel (2016) states that IOT can be defined into three categories as stated below: internet of things is an internet of three things: people to people, people to machine and things and machine and things as well as things and machine to things, and machine interacting through the internet. The basic idea that the internet of things (IoT) concept is a model that consider pervasive presence in the environment of different things and objects that communicates via wireless and wired connections with unique addressing schemes and that work together to create new applications or services targeted towards a common goal. The general idea of the IoT is that everyday objects, make themselves recognizable and they obtain intelligence by making or enabling context related decisions having an ability to communicate information about themselves.

3.3 Level of Awareness of IoT among librarians in Nigeria

A review of literature and developments in libraries have shown some levels of awareness of IoT among librarians in the United States and a few other countries (Swedberg, 2014; Wojcik, 2016); however, nothing in literature has provided any clue about the IoT awareness levels of librarians in Nigeria. Awareness is the first phase in technology acquisition and application. Generally, Nigeria like most developing countries, is far behind in terms of ICT application in industries, institutions and libraries.

Ifijeh (2014) observed that in an era when libraries in developed countries are adopting more advanced technologies in their operations and service delivery, Nigerian libraries are still battling with automation and internet access. Adeleke and Habila (2012) in their study on internet awareness and usage in Nigeria reported a very low level awareness of internet facilities and services among Nigerian librarians; they concluded that internet application to library services is still at its formative stage in the country. Akpan-Atata (2014) attributed librarians’ low level awareness and adoption of ICT to a diverse mix of technological (lack of facilities, computer and internet phobia, and digital illiteracy) and sociological (time, funding and human attributes) factors.

Librarians must employ innovative thinking to determine how to exploit IoT technology to its fullest potential in order to make resources and services valuable in both the present and the future (Kaushik, 2019). By automating several regular operations in the library, the IoT has the potential to make the employment of library staff members easier. IoT adoption may help to reduce inefficiencies in normal operations by continuously tracking appliances and resource usages (Khan et al., 2021). IoT has a great deal of potential and can be used to maintain archive materials, track collections, offer consumers consolation services, and advertise traditional library items online (Wójcik, 2016). In order to accept new technology, one must first assess its advantages, returns on investment, and application’s drawbacks. Students, researchers, instructors, and library professionals can utilize IoT technology by becoming more aware of how adaptable and simple new technologies are to use in libraries (DaLbehera, 2018).

3.4 Application of IoT in academic libraries

Fernandez (2015) put forward the concept of IoT and stated that the libraries have a role to play to implement the IoT in their own environments in ways that align with their values. Pujar and Satyanarayana (2015) projected the various applications of IoT in libraries viz energy management, virtual library card, smart digital shelves, real time data of patron’s requests, IoT enabled mobile devices to locate favorite books etc.

In an OCLC survey it was found that many librarians were familiar with IoT technologies (Hoy, 2015) and listed different methods of integrating IoT tools to library activities. These included inventory control, mobile reference, resource availability etc. Wójcik (2016) proposed a theoretical model of IoT usage in library services after reviewing related literature of IoT implementation in libraries. Nag and Nikam (2016) proposed IoT technologies like cloud computing, magic mirror, pressure sensor pads through wireless sensor for better management of services in the academic libraries.

Miorandi (2012) recommended that IoT-enabled technologies can be used to greatly enhance the performance of current solutions, providing cheaper and less invasive alternatives to the widespread deployment of cameras while at the same time preserving users’ privacy. Makori (2017) noted the power of IoT in transforming and changing academic and research information organizations as the source of knowledge in addition to expanding access to education, data, information and communication anywhere anytime through hyper connectivity and networking.

Kim et al (2017) analysed academia perception of IoT using the analysis of words frequency, co-occurrence, and distance. Abuarqoub et al (2017) explored the possibility of IoT applications in academic libraries. Academic libraries use IoT-enabled real-time recording of environmental data to reduce the use of energy and to improve the user’s comfort. Several foreign universities developed smart building providing better energy savings, monitoring and alarm systems. Patel (2019) proposed an energy efficient system providing technical solution to conserve energy in library and other buildings using two main sensors to detect human presence. The technology effectively controlled usage of electrical devices when not in use. Most of the studies showed that IoT can be effectively integrated into the physical space of the library.

3.5 Benefits of IoT to library service delivery

The applicability of IoT to libraries has become a subject of discussion among professionals. Libraries cannot afford to be left behind in the provision of improved services to patrons. Potter (2014) posited that though IoT is still in a stage of infancy, it holds a great potential for libraries. The IoT can help with intelligent library management by providing intelligent management, reader behavior analysis, intelligent self-borrowing and returning books and materials, long-term preservation, and other conveniences (Fu, 2021). Rahman & Islam (2019) gave several instances of how IoT-enabled libraries could help with effective administration of library infrastructure, including automated book renewal, a fine for excessive resource use, and book tagging via patrons’ fingerprints.

Pujar and Satyanarayana (2015) discussed the IoT’s possible impact on libraries, including access to library and its resources, collection management, information literary, recommendation services, location-based services and appliances management, and proposed innovative approaches, such as a virtual library card, smart digital shelve, cloud services, integrating of RFID tags into member cards to access to library and its resource, fine collection management and better inventory management.

Wojcik (2016) opined that ‘IoT has the potential to improve library services by providing users with tools that allow easy use of libraries, constant contextual help, and personalization processes’. Wojcik further noted that IoT can also be useful for sharing information, consultation and training, provision of access to spaces and equipment, gathering, description, storage, analysis and selection of collections, marketing and promotion. A survey carried out by OCLC (2015) indicated that practitioners opined that IoT is an emerging technology that can be used in such library operations as inventory control, access and authentication and monitoring of collection storage. There are very few known IoT applications in libraries currently. The first known initiative of IoT application in libraries is the BluuBeam application implemented by the Orlando Public library in the United States of America (USA).

Hoy (2015) analyzed the IoT benefits for libraries in inventory control, mobile payments, mobile reference, resource availability, room configuration, etc., and discussed that Beacon as an available IoT device can provide location information, event announcements, way-finding and item recommendations. Hahn (2017) explored the IoT role in libraries location services via mobile technology, library mobile app, library automation, Internet of Everything, service development and innovation, and possible business opportunity.

Massis (2016) explored IoT and its potential impact on the library from the security and privacy points of view, and proposed the Security of Things, security management approaches and the IoT potential disrupt services for libraries. Libraries can benefit from IoT in saving staff time, improving patron service, tailored service and recommendation service by collecting real-time data. Kamalrudin et al. (2018) analyzed the IoT-related business application, the security requirement for IoT application in libraries, and proposed a method to identify the security concern with IoT application.

3.6 Challenges of the application of IoT in libraries Services

The internet of things no doubt is a potent technology that will change the service structure and pattern of libraries in the coming years. However researchers have identified a number of issues as possible challengers that libraries will face in adopting this novel technology. Bansal, Arora, and Suri (2018); Echedom, Kakiri, and Oyadonghan (2020) and Brian, Arochiam and Malarchelvi (2014) identified the following possible challenges in the application of internet of things in library services:

  • ➢ Privacy and Security: The privacy of patrons’ document is under serious treat since IoT has a possibility of having access to connected and enabled devices, which could lead to hacking. In 2011, the water treatment system in Illinois was shut down. A hacker managed to remotely disable a utility’s water pump used to pipe water to thousands of homes in Illinois. The hacker broke into a software company’s database and obtained user names and passwords of control systems (Rushe, 2011).
  • ➢ Budget Cut and High Cost of IoT Installation: With the attendant problem of budget cost confronting a number of libraries and the increase in the price of ICT enabled devices and network services, most libraries may not be able to provide adequate fund to cater for the establishment of IoT enabled library services. Again, since IoT is a progressive innovation most libraries may not be able to cope with the evolving trends in the IoT infrastructure, given that IoT requires time and technically competent manpower.
  • ➢ Technology Inclined Users/Users Training: Though a very innovative technology the IoT will require users who are tech-inclined to be able to utilize adequately the resources and services of IoT, otherwise the whole essence of establishing IoT will be an exercise in futility. Hence, budgetary provisions should be made for continuous training and re-training of users owing to the ever evolving nature of IoTs. This training will also involve the library staff due to the ever changing nature of IoT.
  • ➢ Programme Malfunction: There is a possibility of the system or a unit of the infrastructure to malfunction; thereby doing what it was not originally programmed to do. i.e. A vehicle might stop responding to the driver’s actions, a valve could liberate too much fluid and increase pressure in a heating system, and a medical device could report inaccurate patient monitoring data or inject the wrong amount of medicine.
  • ➢ Decline in the use of Physical Manpower and Library: Since IoT is technology based, the services previously done by humans can be taken over by Robots or machines with inbuilt routine service intelligence and this may lead to progressive downsizing of human’s (Professional and Para professional librarians) working in the library. Similarly, since most resources can be retrieved through network enabled devices and appliance, most library users may not need to visit the library physically, as these resources can be access just anywhere within the network.

4. Methodology

Descriptive survey design was adopted for this study because of its appropriateness to studies of this kind. The population of the study consisted librarians in three selected universities in Kwara state included university of Ilorin has 63 librarians, Al-Hikimah university has 9 and Kwara state university has 13, hence, 85 form the population of this study and the staudy adopt total enumerative sampling techniques. Questionnaires was instruments of data collection used in this study. Eighty five questionnaires were distributed to respondents in their offices within various unit. Out of which 82 were completed and retrieved. Resulting in as response rate of 96%. The result of the responses was interpreted using simple percentage and frequency tables.

4.1 Demography of the respondents

The data in table 2 shows the percentage of respondents by Gender. It was revealed that out of 82 respondents, the female respondents have the higher percentage of 45 (54.9%) while the remaining 37 (45.1%) were male. From this result it can be inferred that the population of female librarians are more than that of the male librarians in universities.

Frequency distribution of respondent by gender

The table shows the distribution of the respondents by categories of participant. A total of 69 (84.1%) of the respondent were professional, 11 (13.1%) of the respondent were Para-Professional, while 2 (2.4%) of the respondent were Non-Professional. This implies the majorities of respondent were professional.

Frequency distribution of respondent by categories of participant

The table above shows the distribution of the respondents by their Highest Educational Qualification. A total of 2 (2.4%) of the respondent have DLS, 4 (4.9%) hove OND, 5 (6.1%) have HND. Furthermore, 31 (37.8%) have BLIS while 32 (39.0%) have MLIS and 8 (9.8%) have PhD. essentially, the largest percentage of the respondents for this study has MLIS followed by BLIS.

Frequency distribution of respondent by Highest Educational Qualification

4.2 Analysis of the data on research questions, interpretation and discussion of findings.

∙ Research Question 1: what are the level of awareness of the internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State?

Table show the level of awareness of the internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State, it was revealed majority of respondents 82 (100%) indicated they are aware of Internet of Everything (IoE) which is an extension of IoT that includes people, process, data and things in network connections, The Internet of Mobile Things (IoMT) is used to communicate the devices using inbuilt mobile sensors and Internet of Nano Things (IoNT) a Nano Technology in which the communication exist between nano scale devices, followed by The Internet of Mission-Critical Things (IoMCT) is used in critical missions such as rescue operations, battlefields, etc 71 (93.3%).

The level of awareness of the internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State

∙ Research Question 2: what are extent of application of the internet of things in universities libraries?

Table show the extent of application of the internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State. It was revealed that Providing access to current information sources to a very great extent 78 (93.7%), followed by Electronic resources 77 (92.3%) while 70 (81.7%) indicated it aid communication (answer query) to a great extent and 47 (56.3%) it aid research to agreat extent and 43 (49.0%) it aid environmental monitoring to a very great extent. This suggest that there’s no restricted to the use of internet by librarians in university libraries and all individual irrespective of their profession can use them.

The extent of application of the internet of things in universities libraries

∙ Research Question 3: what are the benefit of internet of things in universities libraries?

The benefit of internet of things in universities libraries

From the table above, it is revealed that 67 (82.7%) respondent indicated Device in the IoT platforms are heterogeneous and are based on different hardware platforms and networks, followed by 65 (80.3%) who indicated It gives the high level of interoperability and interconnectivity, more so, 64 (76.3%) indicated IoT platform has sensors which detect or measure any changes in the environment to generate data that can report on their status or even interact with the environment while 61 (70.3%) indicated IoT comes with the combination of algorithms and computation, software & hardware that makes it smart and 56 (64.0%) indicated Anything can be interconnected with the global information and communication infrastructure.

∙ Research Question 4: what are the challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries?

Table above revealed the challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries. It was revealed that 67 (82.7%) indicated Data interpretation problem and Lack of skilled and specialized workers, followed by 64 (78.7%) indicated Cost, while 61 (76.3%) indicated Challenges in online security and 59 (74.3%) indicated Software complexity. On a contrary view majority 60 (74.7%) disagree with Power supply as the challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries.

The challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries


5. Discussion

The study investigated the awareness and application of internet of things in universities libraries. Four research questions were formulated. Each of the four research questions were based on determine the level of awareness of the internet of things in universities libraries, the extent of application of the internet of things in universities libraries, benefit of internet of things in universities libraries and the challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries. The findings of study are discus as follows:

Finding to research questions one shows in the that majority of the respondents revealed that librarians are aware of Internet of Everything (IoE) which is an extension of IoT that includes people, process, data and things in network connections, The Internet of Mobile Things (IoMT) is used to communicate the devices using inbuilt mobile sensors, Internet of Nano Things (IoNT) a Nano Technology in which the communication exist between nano scale devices, and Internet of Mission-Critical Things (IoMCT) is used in critical missions such as rescue operations, battlefields, etc,. It suggested that most of the respondents were familiar with the term IoT and its key components in architecture. This finding substantiates the submission of Atzori et al. (2012) who submitted that the Web of Things, Social Internet of Things cloud computing in IoT, green IoT technologies, context-aware IoT, sensing as a service on the cloud (Xu et al., 2014), the Internet of Nano-Things (Miorandi et al., 2012; Whitmore et al., 2015) and 5G IoT (Li et al., 2018) were discussed. 5G technologies are expected to optimize IoT applications. IoT has a great deal of potential and can be used to maintain archive materials, track collections, offer consumers consolation services, and advertise traditional library items online (Wójcik, 2016). In order to accept new technology, one must first assess its advantages, returns on investment, and application’s drawbacks. Students, researchers, instructors, and library professionals can utilize IoT technology by becoming more aware of how adaptable and simple new technologies are to use in libraries (DaLbehera, 2018).

The second research question posed was, what are the extent of application of the internet of things in universities libraries? Majority of respondents indicated revealed that the extent of application of the internet of things providing access to current information sources, Electronic resources, aiding communication (answer query), aiding research and it aid environmental monitoring to a very great extent, This finding agreed with with Pujar and Satyanarayana (2015) projected the various applications of IoT in libraries viz energy management, virtual library card, smart digital shelves, real time data of patron’s requests, IoT enabled mobile devices to locate favorite books etc and further enumerated potential areas for implementation of IoT in libraries to include – improved access to the library and its resources, collection management, information literacy, recommendation service, location based service, appliances management and usage statistics. In an OCLC survey it was found that many librarians were familiar with IoT technologies (Hoy, 2015) and listed different methods of integrating IoT tools to library activities. These included inventory control, mobile reference, resource availability etc. Kim et al (2017) analysed academia perception of IoT using the analysis of words frequency, co-occurrence, and distance. Abuarqoub et al (2017) explored the possibility of IoT applications in academic libraries. Academic libraries use IoT-enabled real-time recording of environmental data to reduce the use of energy and to improve the user’s comfort. Several foreign universities developed smart building providing better energy savings, monitoring and alarm systems. Patel (2019) proposed an energy efficient system providing technical solution to conserve energy in library and other buildings using two main sensors to detect human presence. The technology effectively controlled usage of electrical devices when not in use.

Finding to research questions three in Table shows the benefit of internet of things in universities libraries majority of the respondents indicated that the benefit of internet of a things to include: Device in the IoT platforms are heterogeneous and are based on different hardware platforms and networks, It gives the high level of interoperability and interconnectivity, IoT platform has sensors which detect or measure any changes in the environment to generate data that can report on their status or even interact with the environment, IoT comes with the combination of algorithms and computation, software & hardware that makes it smart and Anything can be interconnected with the global information and communication infrastructure. This finding align the submission of Hoy (2015) analyzed the IoT benefits for libraries in inventory control, mobile payments, mobile reference, resource availability, room configuration, etc., and discussed that Beacon as an available IoT device can provide location information, event announcements, way-finding and item recommendations. Hahn (2017) explored the IoT role in libraries location services via mobile technology, library mobile app, library automation, Internet of Everything, service development and innovation, and possible business opportunity. Massis (2016) explored IoT and its potential impact on the library from the security and privacy points of view, and proposed the Security of Things, security management approaches and the IoT potential disrupt services for libraries. Libraries can benefit from IoT in saving staff time, improving patron service, tailored service and recommendation service by collecting real-time data.

The fourth research question stated the challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries, the finding as indicated in table that data interpretation problem, lack of skilled and specialized workers, cost and challenges in online security as well as software complexity are the major challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries while majority of respondent disagree with power supply as the challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries. This finding was consistent with Bansal, Arora and Suri (2018); Echedom, Kakiri,and Oyadonghan,(2020) and Brian, Arochiam and Malarchelvi (2014) identified the following possible challenges in the application of internet of things in library services to include: Privacy and Security, Budget Cut and High Cost of IoT Installation, Technology Inclined Users/Users Training, Programme Malfunction and Decline in the use of Physical Manpower and Library.


6. Conclusion and Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following conclusions were drawn from the outcomes of the study. The awareness and application of internet of things in universities libraries Nigeria. Librarians are awareness on the application of internet of things. The internet of things has a great prospect for libraries. Libraries and librarians need to embrace this smart technology, especially at this evolving stage to compete favorably in the global information service world. As mentioned in the context, IOT technologies can be useful for collection management, online services, education and providing access to spaces and equipment, gathering, analyzing, storage and sharing information. IOT can help libraries by optimizing use of space, enhancing the visitor experience, and preserving valuable collections through smart room management. It is clear that new technologies and devices will bring new opportunities and challenges. IOT can optimize traditional and online collections and services of libraries (especially academic libraries). librarians in Nigeria need to take conscious steps at ensuring understanding of the concept and application of ‘Internet of Things’ to effective library service delivery. This will enhance maximization of the embedded benefits. Users will obviously gravitate towards smart libraries when they experience quality service resulting from technology adoption.

The following recommendations are suggested based on the findings of the study:

  • (1) The study identified Lack of skilled and specialized workers and Data interpretation problem is a challenge faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries, hence, the university authority needs to organize orientation/training for the librarians of universities.
  • (2) Cost and Challenges in online security, as well as Software complexity is another challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries, hence, there is need for government interference in developing the library in other to meet up with the vision and mission of it establishment.
  • (3) The study shows that library should create more awareness on the application of Internet of Things; hence the university librarian need to urgently develop a strategy for creating awareness on application of Internet of Things’ to effective library service delivery,
  • (4) Future libraries will be equipped with new technologies and networking devices as soon as possible. Therefore, it will be essential for users and librarians have sufficient knowledge about IOT technologies,
  • (5) Designers and professionals should be aware of this issue and they should use new security protocols to safe their collection and user information in this new environment.

References

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[About the author]

Saliu Abdulfatai is currently an assistant librarian in Afe Babalola university Ado Ekiti, Nigeria, he holds a bachelor degree in library and information science in Kwara State University Malete, and furthered his profession to master in the same discipline in University of Ilorin and currently pursuing his doctor of philosophy in the same discipline from the department of library and information science, Federal University of Oye Ekiti.

Table 1.

Frequency distribution of respondent by gender

Gender Frequency Percentage
Male 37 45.1
Female 45 54.9
Total 82 100

Table 2.

Frequency distribution of respondent by categories of participant

Categories of participant Frequency Percentage
Professional 69 84.1
Para-Professional 11 13.1
Non-Professional 2 2.4
Total 82 100

Table 3.

Frequency distribution of respondent by Highest Educational Qualification

Educational Qualification Frequency Percentage
DLS 2 2.4
OND 4 4.9
HND 5 6.1
BLS 31 37.8
MLS 32 39.0
PhD 8 9.8
Total 82 100

Table 4.

The level of awareness of the internet of things in universities libraries in Kwara State

STATEMENTS A NA Total
NO. % NO. % %
(Keys: A= Aware; NA= Not aware)
Internet of Everything (IoE) which is an extension of IoT that includes people, process, data and things in network connections 82 100 - - 100
The Internet of Mobile Things (IoMT) is used to communicate the devices using inbuilt mobile sensors 82 100 - - 100
The Internet of Mission-Critical Things (IoMCT) is used in critical missions such as rescue operations, battlefields, etc 71 93.3 11 6.7 100
Internet of Nano Things (IoNT) a Nano Technology in which the communication exist between nano scale devices. 82 100 - - 100

Table 5.

The extent of application of the internet of things in universities libraries

STATEMENTS 5 4 3 2 1 0 Total
0 = not at all 1 = to a small extent 2 = to some extent 3 = to a moderate extent 4 = to a great extent
5 = to a very great extent
To aid research  47 (56.3%) 29 (33.7%) 3 (5.0%) 3 (5.0%) - - 100
Computing resources optimization by balancing edge and cloud in the smart grid 28 (35.3%) 38 (41.3%) 11 (15.7%) - - 5
7.7%
100
To aid confidentiality and integrity of technology  29 (36.3%) 31 (37.7%) 15 (18.0%) 7 (8.0%) - - 100
Electronic resources 77 (92.3%) 5 (7.7%) - - - - 100
To aid communication (answer query) 70 (81.7%) 6 (8.3%) 3 (5.0%) 3 (5.0%) - - 100
To aid environmental monitoring  43 (49.0%) 28 (35.3%) - 11 (15.7%) - - 100
Providing access to current information sources 78 (93.7%) 4 (6.3%) - - - - 100

Table 6.

The benefit of internet of things in universities libraries

STATEMENTS SA A D SD Total
(Keys: SA= Strongly Agree; A=Agree; SD=Strongly Disagree D=Disagree)
Anything can be interconnected with the global information and communication infrastructure  56 (64.0%) 3 (4.0%) 12 (16.3) 11 (15.7%) 100
IoT platform has sensors which detect or measure any changes in the environment to generate data that can report on their status or even interact with the environment 64 (76.3%) - 11 (15.7%) 7 (8.0%) 100
IoT comes with the combination of algorithms and computation, software & hardware that makes it smart 61 (70.3%) - 18 (25.7%) 3 (4.0%) 100
Device in the IoT platforms are heterogeneous and are based on different hardware platforms and networks. 67 (82.7%) - 15 (17.3%) - 100
It gives the high level of interoperability and interconnectivity 65 (80.3%) 7 (8.0%) 10 (11.7%) - 100

Table 7.

The challenges faced in the application of internet of things in universities libraries

STATEMENTS  SA A D SD Total
(Keys: SA= Strongly Agree; A=Agree; SD=Strongly Disagree D=Disagree)
Power supply  15 (17.3%) - 7 (8.0%) 60 (74.7%) 100
Cost 64 (78.7%) - 18 (21.3%) - 100
Challenges in online security 61 (70.3%) - 18 (25.7%) 3 (4.0%) 100
Lack of skilled and specialized workers 67 (82.7%) - - 15 (17.3%) 100
Software complexity 56 (64.0%) 3 (4.0%) 12 (16.3%) 11 (15.7%) 100
Data interpretation problem 67 (82.7%) 5 (7.0%) 10 (12.7%) - 100