Vol. 14(4), pp. 201- -212 August, 2026. 

ISSN: 2360-7858

https://doi.org/10.14662/ijalis2026530

 

Full Length Research

 

Abstract

This study examined records management and policies in Nigerian university libraries, with particular reference to Abia State University (ABSU) Library, Uturu. The study was guided by four objectives, which were to identify the methods used in managing staff records, determine the management policies guiding staff records, identify the challenges associated with records management, and examine strategies for addressing the identified challenges. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised 33 library staff of Abia State University Library, consisting of 23 para-professional and 10 professional librarians. The entire population was studied using census sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled Records Management and Policy Questionnaire (RMPQ). The instrument was validated by experts, and the data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, particularly mean scores, with a criterion mean of 2.50 for decision-making. The findings revealed that document management systems, employee self-service portals, cloud-based storage, regular backups, centralized databases, and records management software were accepted methods of managing staff records. The study also identified confidentiality, accuracy, transparency, storage, access controls, auditability, data integrity, and retention as major records management policies. The major challenges identified included managing the volume and complexity of records, protecting confidential records from unauthorized access, managing records across multiple systems and locations, dealing with obsolete technologies, integrating records management into organizational processes, securing management support, and dealing with resistance to change. The study concluded that effective records management is essential for accurate, secure, accessible, and reliable staff records in university libraries. It recommended improved records management systems, regular staff training, adequate institutional support, and the implementation of appropriate policies and strategies to enhance records management practices in university libraries.

 

Keywords: Records Management; Records Management Policies; University Libraries; Staff Records; Information Management; Abia State University; Records Management Challenges; Library Services.

 

	Cite This Article As: Okeuhie, NS., Tony Okereke, AU., McAlbert, F., Ndubuisi, NM (2026). Records Management and Policies in Nigerian University Libraries. A Study of Abia State University Uturu. Inter. J. Acad. Lib. Info. Sci. 14(4): 213-230