Exploration of Mentoring Experiences of Library Professionals in Nigeria Police Academy Wudil Kano State Nigeria through the Model of Antecedents Criteria and Consequences of Mentoring

Given the specialized skills required in police and security-focused library services, mentoring plays a critical role in the professional development of librarians. Within this context, this study was aimed to examine the mentoring experiences of library professionals in Nigeria Police Academy Wudil, Kano State, Nigeria, using the Model of Antecedents, Criteria, and Consequences of Mentoring. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, using self-structured questionnaire. A census approach was used; therefore the entire population was studied. The study was guided by six research objectives and research questions. Data were analysed using simple percentages, frequency counts, arithmetic means, and Standard Deviations. Findings revealed that the library professionals had engaged in a variety of mentoring strategies. Antecedents of mentoring were rated effective. The library staff reported a positive perception of the mentoring criteria or activities. Consequences or outcome of mentoring were perceived as highly positive. Challenges to effective mentoring were acknowledged, among which are: absence of well-structured organizational policy framework supporting mentoring activities in the library and lack of well-structured mentoring strategies in the library. Respondents recognized regular training for both mentors and mentees on mentoring relationships as one of the major strategies for overcoming challenges to effective mentoring. Based on the findings, the study concludes that the staff members of Nigeria Police Academy Wudil Library, Kano have a positive perception of their mentoring experiences. Among other recommendations, the study emphasized development and implementation of a comprehensive and well-structured mentoring policy to enhance the long-term effectiveness of mentoring practices