ANASSESSMENTONSTRATEGIESOFPROTECTINGCOPYRIGHTED INFORMATIONMATERIALINACADEMICLIBRARIES:ACASESTUDY OFMARIANUNIVERSITYCOLLEGE

This study assessed the strategies used in protecting copyrighted information materials in academic libraries, with specific reference to Marian University College. The study was guided by four specific objectives: to examine the laws guiding the use of copyrighted information materials, to establish the level of awareness among library staff and users regarding copyrighted information materials, to identify challenges faced by academic libraries in protecting copyrighted information materials, and to suggest measures for improving copyright protection in academic libraries. The study employed a descriptive research design and a mixed research approach involving both qualitative and quantitative methods. A sample of 50 respondents was selected from a population of 500 library users and staff members. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents were aware of copyright laws and recognized their importance in protecting intellectual property rights. The study further established that awareness of copyrighted information materials among library staff and users was generally satisfactory. However, several challenges were identified, including inadequate awareness among some users, digital piracy, insufficient copyright training, weak enforcement mechanisms, and limited resources for copyright management. The study also found that continuous training, awareness programs, strengthening copyright policies, adoption of technological protection measures, and regular monitoring were effective strategies for improving copyright protection in academic libraries. The study concludes that although Marian University College has made efforts to protect copyrighted information materials, more institutional commitment is needed to address existing challenges. The study recommends enhancing copyright awareness programs

Type

Other

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved