SURVEY OF RESEARCH COLLABORATION AND PARTNERSHIP AMONG ACADEMIC LIBRARIANS IN UNIVERSITIES IN FCT-ABUJA

Abstract

This study investigates research collaboration and partnership among academic librarians in universities within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)-Abuja, Nigeria. quantitative survey method, data was collected from fifty (50) academic librarians across five selected universities in FCT-Abuja. A questionnaire was used to elicit information from the respondents. The research emphasizes the importance of collaboration in academic settings for innovation, knowledge exchange, and scholarship advancement. Despite the potential benefits, academic librarians face significant challenges in collaborative research, including lack of motivation, inadequate funding, outdated infrastructure, and a disconnect between academia and industry. The findings reveal prevalent forms of collaboration, such as mentoring, joint research projects, co-authorship, and participation in professional associations. However, challenges like insufficient funding, time constraints, communication barriers, and lack of training in collaborative methods hinder effective collaboration. The study concludes with recommendations for universities to provide additional support and resources to enhance collaborative research efforts among academic librarians in Abuja.