Library Management in Digital Age: A Study of Innovative Practices among Library and Information Science Professionals in State Owned University Libraries Southwest Nigeria

This study investigated library management in digital age: a study of innovative practices among library and information science professionals in state owned university libraries, southwest Nigeria. The study was guided by the objectives, which were to ascertain the types of innovative practices adopted among LIS Professionals in State Owned University Libraries in Southwest Nigeria currently in use; and examine the extent of innovative library management Examine the extent among library and information science Professionals in State Owned University Libraries, Southwest Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, involving 140 professional librarians, with 132 valid responses analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics (mean, standard deviation, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression). Findings indicated that core digital innovations, such as integrated library systems and institutional repositories, are widely adopted, while advanced technologies like data analytics, cloud-based services, and virtual reference platforms remain underutilized. Digital competence, institutional support, and ICT infrastructure emerged as significant predictors of innovative practices. Major challenges identified include inadequate funding, poor ICT infrastructure, irregular power supply, and limited training opportunities. The study concludes that while LIS professionals are actively reinventing library management, sustainable digital transformation requires strategic policy support, continuous capacity building, and infrastructural enhancement. The findings offer practical insights for policymakers, library administrators, and stakeholders aiming to strengthen innovation and service delivery in academic libraries