Utilisation of Innovative Technologies for Library Orientation in University Libraries in Rivers State

The study investigated the utilization of innovative technologies for library orientation in university libraries in Rivers State.The study adopted a descriptive research survey design.The population of the study was 42 librarians in university libraries in Rivers State.Total enumeration sampling technique was used to select all the respondents.Questionnaire was used to gather the data.38 copies of the questionnaire were found valid for analysis.The study was analyzed using mean and standard deviation.The study revealed that library orientation adopted were face to face orientation, use of library guide handbook, use of library course, guided tours and in person presentation/lectures but virtual tour was poorly adopted.Furthermore, OPAC, mobile technologies and social media were used for library orientation but YouTube, zoom, Ask a Librarians, chatbots, gamified tours, and augmented reality were not used for library orientation implying low utilization of innovative technologies in library orientation.The study also noted that although digital divide limits participation, it was perceived that innovative technologies could motivate participation, bridge distance barrier, facilitate interaction with students, enhance the use of library and promotes library orientation.Thus, there is a positive perception of the use of innovative technologies for library orientation.It was therefore, recommended that libraries should create interactive tutorials, live sessions, and real-time support through social media and mobile apps to enhance user learning and access.