Perception, Competency and Use of Big Data Analytics among Librarians from University Libraries in Osun State

This study investigated librarians’ perception towards the use of Big Data Analytics (BDA). It also ascertained the librarians’ competency level in carrying out BDA and the extent of BDA use. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study consisted of all librarians from the twelve National Universities Commission’s (NUC) approved universities in Osun State. A multistage sampling technique was employed to obtain a representative sample of 36 librarians from the three sampled universities. Quantitative data was collected using a researcher-designed questionnaire titled “Perception, Competency and Use of big data analytics among University Libraries (PCUBDAUL).†The data collected was analysed using percentage distribution, mean, and standard deviation, to answer the four research questions. The result showed that librarians in universities in Osun state have a high level of awareness of BDA; hold a positive perception of BDA; possess a high level of competence in carrying out big data analytics and have high extent of use of BDA. The study recommended that; since the librarians in the study area have high positive perception and high level of awareness, it is important that librarians receive training from time to time on emerging issues in BDA.