Research Output of Librarians in Federal Universities in South-West, Nigeria (2019- 2024)

AbstractPurpose: Research output is crucial in shaping the reputation and ranking of universities, serving as a key criterion for evaluating the promotion and tenure of librarians in Nigerian universities. The research output of librarians significantly contributes to the growth, progress, and development of universities. This study examined the research output of librarians in federaluniversities in South-west Nigeria.Methodology: It adopted a descriptive survey design using questionnaires to gather data from respondents. The population comprised 119 librarians from seven federal government-owned universities in the south-west geopolitical zone of the country. A total enumeration sampling technique was employed. Of the 119 questionnaires distributed, 114 were returned and deemed valid for analysis, representing a response rate of 96%. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data related to the research questions.Findings: Findings revealed that the research output level of librarians in these universities was low, with notable challenges such as high publication charges, time constraints, and the submission process identified as major obstacles. These challenges reflect both external factors, including financial constraints and institutional procedures, and internal factors such as workload and timemanagement.Conclusion: the study concluded that librarians exhibit varying levels of research output across different publication formats in federal universities in South-West Nigeria. Therefore, the study emphasises the need to foster a supportive and collaborative environment to address these challenges, thereby enhancing research output and efficiency among librarians in academicsettings.