The University of Lagos (UNILAG), through its Staff Training and Development Unit, has organised a two-day capacity-building programme for library staff.
The programme, which had the theme “Fostering a Future-Ready University Library: Embracing Innovation and Change”, was held at the Faculty of Science Boardroom from Tuesday, September 23 to Wednesday, September 24, 2025.
Essential Driver of Development and Innovation
Speaking on behalf of the University Management, the University Librarian, Professor Olatokunbo Okiki, described training as an essential driver of development and innovation in contemporary higher education. He noted that one of the pillars of Vice-Chancellor Ogunsola’s “FUTURE-READY” agenda aimed to build an impactful library that nurtures future leaders and professionals who will contribute meaningfully to scholarship and productivity. He stressed that such excellence can only be achieved when library staff are trained in line with international best practices.
Artificial Intelligence and Modern Libraries
One of the resource persons, Mr. Samson Alonge, spoke on the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in libraries. He explained that modern libraries must embrace technology to align with global standards, describing AI as a valuable tool in digital library operations. According to him, AI-driven resources can provide solutions to the intellectual needs of scholars. He emphasised that libraries play a significant role in institutional rankings and that librarians, as custodians of knowledge, must constantly update their expertise. He advised librarians to be voracious readers and to adopt lifelong learning as a guiding principle.
A Values-driven Library Service
Also addressing the participants, Professor Ayodele Elizabeth Omolayo spoke extensively on work ethics among library staff. She highlighted the importance of innovation while stressing that the vision and mission of the University demand that library staff uphold scholarship and the ethical responsibilities that come with being custodians of knowledge. She outlined professionalism, responsibility, and integrity as key principles guiding librarianship, urging staff never to compromise on these values. She further emphasized the importance of good customer service, noting that librarians are the primary interface between users and the University brand.
Closing Remarks
In her closing remarks, the Director of UNILAG’s Staff Training Unit, Mrs. Aderonke Asiwaju, underscored institutional loyalty as the foundation of institutional excellence. She noted that honesty, professionalism, and ethical standards remain crucial for progress within the University ecosystem. She called for greater adoption of library automation, describing it as a global expectation for libraries as knowledge and research hubs. According to her, teamwork and technological adaptation will position UNILAG’s library system as a solution center and strengthen the University’s reputation as “the University of First Choice and the Nation’s Pride.”
Report: Akinola Afolabi
Photography: Islamiat Akanni
