Gender and publication output of librarians in Edo and Delta State university libraries in Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to ascertain gender differences in librarians’ publication output in Nigerian university libraries; to spotlight the benefits librarians derive from publication, and to identify the problems encountered by librarians in their publication efforts.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a descriptive survey method supported by a questionnaire. The population of the study consisted of a focus group made up of a total number of 55 academic librarians from five university libraries in Edo and Delta States. The researchers also engaged both male and female academics in the various institutions using a semi‐structured interview.

Findings

It was revealed that male librarians publish more than their female counterparts. The interview responses also revealed that female academics noted family responsibilities as a major factor hindering them from publishing equally as their male counterparts. It was discovered that male and female librarians in the university libraries investigated publish their works mostly in the African continent, and enumerated promotion/career advancement, contribution to knowledge, personal and institutional prestige as the major benefits librarians derive from publication.

Originality/value

It is hoped that the study will help librarians to see the advantages in publishing in order to improve promotion prospects and advance in their careers. The findings of the study will also be useful in making library management and the university authorities aware of the need to enable improved conditions to support research and publication by librarians.

Citation

Baro, E.E., Oni, O. and Onyenania, G.O. (2009), "Gender and publication output of librarians in Edo and Delta State university libraries in Nigeria", Performance Measurement and Metrics, Vol. 10 No. 3, pp. 180-192. https://doi.org/10.1108/14678040911014185