Unveiling Organisational Support as a Determinant of Knowledge Sharing Behaviour in Federal University Libraries North-Central Nigeria

Background: Knowledge Sharing Behavior (KSB) by library personnel is essential for service improvement and institutional development. Evidence from literature and observation reveals that the KSB of library personnel in Nigerian university libraries is declining, as evinced by their unwillingness to share knowledge. Empirical studies suggest that Organisational Support (OS) motivates knowledge sharing. However, there is limited studies that examined the influence of OS on KSB in Nigerian university libraries. Therefore, this study investigated the influence of OS on KSB among library personnel in federal university libraries in North-Central, Nigeria. 

Methodology: The study adopted survey research design. The population comprised 360 library personnel in federal university libraries in North-Central, Nigeria. Total enumeration was used. Data were collected using structured and validated questionnaire. Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients ranged from 0.930 – 0.948. Of the 360 questionnaires distributed, 302 were returned, yielding an 84% response rate. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential (linear regression) statistics at 5% significance level. 

Findings: The results showed that OS provided to personnel was moderate (x? = 3.34, SD = 0.14) on a 5-point Likert scale. The study further revealed that OS had a positive and significant influence on KSB of library personnel in federal university libraries, North-Central, Nigeria (R² = 0.251, F(1, 300) = 100.781, p < 0.05). 

Implications: A supportive work environment fosters trust, collaboration, and resource sharing, which are essential for effective KSB. 

Conclusion: Organisational support is a crucial factor influencing knowledge sharing behaviour among library personnel in federal university libraries in North-Central, Nigeria. 

Recommendations: University administrators and library management should enhance organisational support by providing adequate resources, mentorship, and incentives to promote knowledge sharing behaviour