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Modern information technologies (ITs) are increasingly being applied in the administrative and housekeeping functions of libraries. These ITs are, however, not extensively utilised in Nigerian libraries and the reasons for this have been advanced. Among the reasons identified are:

To examine and discuss the features of library portals and suggest further development of these research tools.

The two categories of library portals (horizontal or public, and vertical) were examined to establish the characteristics of some of the portal software available in the marketplace. The study involved carrying out a literature search and visiting demonstration sites. Some library sites that have implemented this software were subsequently examined in order to establish features of their sites, and to see how these sites have handled the information literacy/research process.

Suggests that a well‐structured subject portal should be based on the principles of the flow of scientific information, and an information literacy component should be embedded in the portal. Such a portal could assist learners to become familiar with the breadth and depth of information resources relevant to their discipline. It should also assist librarians and learning advisers to become familiar with the information literacy requirements of specific subjects and courses. In this way, libraries should achieve their objective of making the learner information‐literate with minimal effort, and thus contribute positively to student learning outcomes.

The paper is a useful source of information for librarians considering investing in one of the commercial software tools and for those embarking on the development of subject portals. A pilot version of the subject portal implemented at the University of the Witswatersrand is shown.

The novelty in this work is the intuitive subject portal that is put forward; the elements and content of the portals are suggested.

To share the conference themes and presentations from the 2006 Nigerian Library Association National Conference.

Gives a brief review of the main events of the conference.

Serious concentration on library technology and ICTs in general to promote open access and encourage better skill sets and competitive advantages in world’s information marketplace.

Illustrates that innovation and technical expertise are the general themes that were impressed upon by most speakers in order to achieve goals.