AWARENESS AND PREPAREDNESS FOR THE ADOPTION OF QR CODES FOR INFORMATION RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

Authors

  • Rasaq Musa Olaoti Department of Library and Information Science, Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Author
  • Sheu Olanrewaju Ishola Department of Library and Information Science, Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Author
  • Ademola Rukayat Department of Computer Science Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, Nigeria. Author
  • Abdulakeem Sodeeq Sulyman Department of Library and Information Science, Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, Nigeria. Author

Keywords:

Adoption, Awareness, Preparedness, QR Code, University Libraries

Abstract

University libraries play an essential role in higher institutions by providing access to diverse information resources 
that support teaching, learning and research. As digital technologies increasingly shape library service delivery, 
Quick Response (QR) codes present a cost-effective tool for enhancing information retrieval. Despite global 
adoption, limited research exists on the preparedness of Nigerian university libraries particularly in Kwara State, 
Nigeria, to implement QR code technologies. This study examines librarians’ awareness and preparedness for QR 
code adoption in university libraries across Kwara State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, 
involving 56 librarians from nine universities. Total enumerative sampling was employed, with data gathered 
through structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics (means, frequencies) and 
inferential statistics (t-tests and ANOVA). The study revealed that librarians demonstrated a moderate level of 
awareness (mean = 26.40) but low preparedness (mean = 18.72) for QR code deployment. Awareness was 
significantly influenced by gender and educational qualification, with male librarians and those holding Ph.D. 
degrees exhibiting higher awareness. Preparedness varied significantly with qualification but showed no significant 
differences based on gender or years of experience. The study reveals disconnect between awareness and 
preparedness, highlights the strategic gap that may impede effective adoption of QR codes in library services in 
Kwara State. It concludes that while baseline awareness exists, practical preparedness is insufficient. The study 
recommends targeted professional development initiatives such as training programmes, workshops and institutional 
support to enhance librarians’ competencies and promote integration of QR code technologies in Nigerian academic 
libraries. 

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Published

2026-09-10

Issue

Vol. 5 No. 2 (2025): IJARMS (Vol5 No2 DECEMBER 2025)

Section

Articles