The Role of the Library in Research Activities

The Role of the Library in Research Activities

The academic library has traditionally been seen as the 'heart of the university', serving the academic community of its parent institution. However, Grimes (cited in Brophy, 2001) notes that the metaphor has been used loosely and with little evidence that it reflects institutional realities.

        i.            The library helps in developing thorough understanding of previous studies by the user. This means that the library gives the users a platform to broaden their horizon regarding a particular subject area.

      ii.            It helps to make similar reference to related research. This implies that the library serves as a facility to consult for similar research interests.

    iii.            It exposes the researcher to varieties of sources, research instruments and theories during the course of a research.

     iv.            It exposes the researcher to various personalities who have carried out similar researches in the researcher’s area of interest.

       v.            It provides the researcher with new insights and approaches to concept development.

     vi.            The library helps to avoid making unnecessary efforts investigating worn-out problems, issues and ideas.

   vii.            It assists the researcher in carrying out comparative studies and analysis from the array of available information resources.

 viii.            It provides an atmosphere that is conducive for rigorous research with good lighting, sitting and conducive environments along with an array of varied information resources.

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