BUDGET ALLOCATION AND ITS IMPACT ON ACQUISITION OF LIBRARY RESOURCES IN PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN ABIA STATE

Abstract

The study explores the critical role of budget allocation for library resources in private universities in Abia State, Nigeria. The population of this study comprised thirty-seven (37) library staff in private universities in Abia State. Since the population was manageable, total enumeration technique was used to capture all the number of staff. A ‘Google form’ questionnaire was sent for data collection. Twenty-six (26) library staff, representing 70.27% filled and returned the questionnaire. This study adopted frequency counts and simple percentages in charts for data presentation. The findings revealed that majority of respondents perceive the current level of budget allocation for library resources as inadequate, leading to challenges such as limited access to updated library materials, competition with other needs, and the cost of digital resources. The study also identifies the positive impacts of budget allocation, including enhanced service delivery, access to new technologies, and improved preservation of information materials. Based on the findings, recommendations are made for addressing the perceived inadequacy of budget allocation, diversify budgeting techniques, and develop strategies to balance the allocation of funds between physical and digital collections.