Finalyear

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative innovation with the potential to revolutionize various sectors, including finance, healthcare, supply chain management, and education. Originally conceptualized as the foundational framework for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, blockchain is now recognized for its capacity to provide secure, transparent, and decentralized data management systems. In the context of academic libraries, blockchain offers promising applications such as enhanced data security, improved record-keeping, and efficient information sharing.
In Nigeria, the adoption of blockchain technology within academic libraries is still in its nascent stages. A study by Fasola, Oyadeyi, and Iyoro (2024) revealed that while Nigerian librarians are aware of blockchain technology and express a willingness to integrate it into library services, actual implementation remains limited. The study identified challenges such as technophobia, lack of competence among librarians, inadequate technical infrastructure, erratic power supply, and poor internet connectivity as significant barriers to adoption.
Further research by Akintunde and Amuda (2024) highlighted that perceived usefulness and supportive policies are critical factors influencing the intention to adopt blockchain in academic libraries. The study also noted that the high cost of infrastructure, privacy concerns, and a lack of understanding of blockchain technology among librarians pose substantial challenges to its adoption.
In the South-East region of Nigeria, which includes Ebonyi State, the utilization of blockchain technology in university libraries is notably low. Obim, Ukwueze, and Nwadike (2024) found that there is minimal use of blockchain for record-keeping, user transaction tracking, resource reservation, and the charging and discharging of information resources. The study emphasized that increasing awareness and addressing the challenges hindering adoption are essential steps toward leveraging blockchain for effective circulation control in university libraries.
Given these insights, it is evident that while there is a foundational awareness of blockchain technology among librarians in Nigeria, significant obstacles impede its widespread adoption in academic libraries. This study aims to explore the awareness and utilization of blockchain technology in selected academic libraries in Ebonyi State. By assessing librarians’ knowledge, perceptions, and the extent of blockchain integration into library operations, this research seeks to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on blockchain applications in academic environments and provide actionable insights into the opportunities and challenges associated with its adoption.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
In recent years, blockchain technology has gained significant attention due to its potential to revolutionize information management, enhance security, and improve transparency in various sectors, including academic libraries. As institutions of higher learning increasingly embrace digital transformation, academic libraries must explore emerging technologies like blockchain to enhance record-keeping, secure digital assets, and improve access to scholarly resources. However, despite its potential, the level of awareness and adoption of blockchain technology in Nigerian academic libraries, particularly in Ebonyi State, remains unclear.
Existing studies suggest that blockchain can be used in academic libraries for secure record management, digital rights protection, and improved access to scholarly materials (Fasola, Oyadeyi, & Iyoro, 2024). However, many academic libraries in developing countries still rely on traditional, centralized systems that are vulnerable to security breaches, data loss, and inefficiencies (Akintunde & Amuda, 2024). This raises concerns about whether librarians and library administrators in Ebonyi State are aware of blockchain’s benefits and whether they have the capacity to integrate it into their operations.
Furthermore, previous research has highlighted various barriers to blockchain adoption in academic institutions, including lack of technical expertise, limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, and resistance to technological change (Obim, Ukwueze, & Nwadike, 2024). Despite these challenges, there is a growing need to investigate whether academic libraries in Ebonyi State have made any progress in adopting blockchain technology or if they remain largely uninformed about its potential applications.
Given this gap in knowledge, this study seeks to examine the awareness and use of blockchain technology in selected academic libraries in Ebonyi State. It aims to identify the extent to which librarians understand blockchain, assess its adoption levels, and explore the challenges and opportunities associated with its implementation. The findings of this research will provide valuable insights into how academic libraries in the region can leverage blockchain technology to enhance their services and improve information management.
1.3 AIM
The aim of this study is to examine the awareness and use of blockchain technology in selected academic libraries in Ebonyi State.
1.4 OBJECTIVES
The specific objectives of this study are to:
1. Examine the level of awareness of blockchain technology among librarians in selected academic libraries in Ebonyi State.
2. Assess the extent to which blockchain technology is being utilized in academic library operations.