Abstract:
This study aimed at assessing the reference services in academic libraries in Benue State. Six research questions were formulated to guide the study on the resources available for reference services in academic libraries in Benue state, the kinds of reference services offered in academic libraries in Benue State, the extent/ways of utilizing the reference resources, effectiveness of the reference services, the factors hindering effective references services, and strategies proffered for enhancement of reference services. Data relevant to the study were collected using questionnaire and observation checklist. A total of forty-four (44) copies out of fifty (50) of the questionnaire were found useable, signifying 88% response. Descriptive research design was used with the entire population of fifty (50) staff members as sample, instrument was validated by three expects in the department of library and information science which made the instrument valid. Data were analyzed using percentages and frequencies. Major findings revealed that reference resources that are available for reference services are encyclopedias, dictionaries, concordances, atlases, year books, periodicals, computers, Internet, bibliographies, handbooks/manuals and insufficient staff. The services in the reference sections are more of general and specific type, the references resources are utilized for assignments, development of vocabulary and finding of specific/general information, it was also discovered that the services rendered are very effective, the problems hindering the effectiveness of reference services were lack of fund, inadequacy of reference resources, shortage of staff and lack of indigenous materials. Strategies proffered were procurement of reference resources as well as careful handling of the patrons and the need of the patrons. Major problems encountered in reference services include inadequate staff, lack of fund, the nature of library staff, poor communication, inadequate reference resources, absorption in administrative work and potential users. Based on the findings, the researcher recommended that government should provide funds in order to procure reference resources; staff should be given opportunity to acquire more knowledge in the work and reference staff should be approachable as well as having good relationship with the clients. In order to ensure full utilization of reference resources, user education should be embedded in the curriculum or be taught from time to time. Also parent organizations should provide enough funds for procurement of the resources for effective service delivery.
