1 Blockchain Technology for Library Services: Challenges and Opportunities for Libraries from a Nigerian Perspective
Rebecca Chidimma Ojobor · 2023
This chapter examines blockchain technology and the challenges and opportunities for its use in libraries. It reports on a study undertaken in federal university libraries in Southeastern Nigeria. The study sought to establish the level of awareness of blockchain technology in libraries, ascertain its relevance in library services and operations, and identify the challenges associated with its usage in libraries. A qualitative research design was adopted targeting academic librarians at the five federal university libraries in Southeastern Nigeria .The research findings revealed various potential uses of blockchain in the library including but not limited to building an enhanced metadata system, hosting peer-to-peer sharing, and serving as a Digital Rights Management (DRM) tool. The findings identified many challenges to implementation including lack of funding, irregular power supply, poor broadband connectivity, and a shortage of competent personnel. Strategies are proffered to ameliorate the challenges and to encourage libraries to adopt and use a remarkable new technology, blockchain.