IMPACT OF DIGITAL PRESERVATION OF ARCHIVAL RESOURCES FOR EFFECTIVE RECORD MANAGEMENT IN PUBLIC LIBRARIES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Public libraries in Nigeria serve as critical repositories of cultural heritage, historical records, government documents, and community memory. However, these archival resources face existential threats from tropical climatic conditions, biological deterioration, physical fragility, and inadequate storage infrastructure. This paper examines the impact of digital preservation on effective record management in Nigerian public libraries. Drawing on theoretical frameworks including the Records Continuum Model and Open Archival Information System (OAIS) reference model, the study analyzes current preservation practices, challenges, and outcomes across selected public libraries in South-East, North-East and North-West Nigeria. Findings indicate that digital preservation significantly enhances record accessibility, searchability, and longevity while reducing physical handling of fragile originals. However, implementation is hampered by funding deficits, technical skill gaps, policy voids, and infrastructure challenges. The paper recommend a tiered implementation framework suitable for resource constrained Nigerian public libraries and for sustainable digital preservation programs.