Determinants of Academic Librarians’ Preparedness for Metaverse-Enabled Library Services in Nigeria
Bolaji David Oladokun, Oladimeji Eyitayo Yemi-Peters, Humphrey Igwechi Wiche, Wahab Akanmu Aboyade, Yusuf Ayodeji Ajani, Kehinde Abayomi Owolabi · The International Information & Library Review · 2026
This study examines the preparedness of academic librarians in Nigeria for metaverse-enabled library services, with particular attention to the predictive roles of technical skills and infrastructural support. While global discussions on metaverse integration in libraries are expanding, empirical evidence from developing contexts remains limited. This study addresses this gap by providing quantitative evidence from Nigerian academic libraries. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design involving 248 academic librarians from tertiary institutions across Nigeria. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression analyses. Findings reveal that while Nigerian librarians exhibit moderate awareness of metaverse technologies, they lack the technical skills necessary for full implementation. Despite these deficiencies, respondents showed high enthusiasm and willingness to adopt metaverse innovations in library services. However, institutional readiness remains poor, with limited infrastructure, inadequate funding, and a lack of supportive policies. Significant barriers identified include insufficient training, poor digital infrastructure, high equipment costs, and resistance to change. A positive correlation was found between librarians’ skills and their willingness to adopt metaverse tools, while both skills and infrastructural support were found to significantly predict overall preparedness. This suggests that metaverse readiness is driven more by human capital capacity than by mere technological awareness. The study advances existing literature by providing one of the earliest predictive models of metaverse preparedness within an African academic library context. It concludes that strategic investment in professional skill development, alongside infrastructural strengthening, is essential for sustainable metaverse integration in developing-country libraries.