FUTMinna 127th Inaugural Lecture: Prof. Oyedum Advocates for Advanced Library Websites to Drive Digital Information Access

The need for functional and interactive library websites as vital tools for information dissemination in the digital age took centre stage at the 127th Inaugural Lecture series of the Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna. 

Prof. Georgina Uchey Oyedum of the Department of Library and Information Technology made the call while delivering her inaugural lecture titled: “The Relationship Between Library Websites and Information Dissemination in the Digital Era: Trends and Challenges,” held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at the University Auditorium, Main Campus.

Prof. Oyedum highlighted the growing importance of library websites in supporting teaching, learning, research and community development in an increasingly digital world. She further explained that librarians are information professionals trained in the collection, organisation, preservation, retrieval and dissemination of information in various formats. She noted that information dissemination remains one of the core responsibilities of librarians and has evolved significantly from traditional methods to digital platforms driven by information and communication technologies. 

According to her, library websites serve as the virtual representation of physical libraries, providing users with access to information resources and services beyond the limitations of physical locations and operating hours. She emphasised that for libraries to remain relevant in contemporary society, they must establish a strong online presence capable of meeting the information needs of users anytime and anywhere. 

Prof. Oyedum identified several emerging trends in library website development, including the digital transformation of libraries, remote accessibility to resources, integration of artificial intelligence-powered tools, promotion of open educational resources, social media engagement and user-centred website design. 

Drawing from a study of selected federal university library websites in Nigeria, she revealed that while about 80 percent of the expected website functionalities were available, many websites still lacked critical interactive features that would enable users to fully access information resources and engage effectively with library services. She observed that services such as online interaction with users, access control mechanisms, virtual reference services, online book reservations and social media integration were either poorly implemented or completely absent in several institutions. 

The inaugural lecturer further noted that most library websites merely display information about library services without providing practical tools that enable users to search, retrieve and utilize resources effectively. She stressed that websites should go beyond listing Online Public Access Catalogues (OPACs) by incorporating user-friendly guides, search functionalities and interactive features that facilitate access to information resources.

The Professor of Library and Information Technology also discussed major challenges confronting library websites in the digital era, including inadequate internet access, information overload, insufficient funding, shortage of technical expertise, poor website usability, copyright restrictions and the rapid pace of technological change.

To address these challenges, she advocated increased funding for university libraries, regular training for librarians and ICT personnel, stronger collaboration between librarians and ICT experts, acquisition of relevant online databases, continuous website evaluation and the development of librarians’ competencies in website design and management. 

The Don also showcased her extensive research contributions in information dissemination, health information services, research data management, library software evaluation, digital repositories and the application of emerging technologies in library services. Her studies demonstrated the significant role of librarians in enhancing healthcare information delivery, promoting digital literacy and supporting research and innovation across various sectors. 

Concluding the lecture, Prof. Oyedum affirmed that library websites have become indispensable communication and information dissemination tools capable of extending library services to users across geographical boundaries. She called for concerted efforts to improve the accessibility, usability and interactivity of library websites to ensure that users derive maximum benefit from available information resources. 

She said in today's knowledge driven society, “you are not only what you eat but also what you read," ending her lecture with that memorable remark.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, congratulated Prof. Oyedum on the successful delivery of her inaugural lecture. He described the lecture as insightful, timely and highly relevant to the realities of the digital age, particularly in advancing access to information through technology driven library services.

Prof. Kuta also commended the inaugural lecturer for her scholarly contributions and valuable recommendations, noting that they would enrich efforts towards strengthening information dissemination and digital transformation in academic libraries. He also appreciated guests and members of the University community for their participation in the event.

Photo Credit Elijah Yisa