Digital Preservation and Access: Challenges and Solutions for Digital Libraries in State Owned Universities in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

The preservation and accessibility of digital resources are critical to the sustainability of scholarly communication and knowledge dissemination in the digital age. This study investigates the current practices, challenges, and potential solutions related to digital preservation and access in digital libraries of state-owned universities in Southwest Nigeria. Using a qualitative approach comprising interviews with 17 out of 140 librarians and ICT staff across state owned universities in South-West Nigeria, using purposing sampling technique, the study reveals that digital preservation practices remain largely informal and inconsistent. Key challenges identified include inadequate technological infrastructure, absence of institutional policies, insufficient funding, and lack of skilled personnel. Additionally, user access to digital library resources is hindered by poor system usability, limited digital literacy, and lack of orientation. Despite these limitations, respondents highlighted practical solutions such as the adoption of open-source preservation tools, staff training, collaborative consortia, and the development of policy frameworks. The study concludes that a comprehensive, policy-driven, and well-resourced approach is essential to ensure the long-term preservation and accessibility of digital resources in Nigerian university libraries. The findings provide valuable insights for academic administrators, library professionals, and policymakers committed to enhancing digital library services in resource-constrained environments.