Abstract
This paper examined knowledge management in the 5th industrial revolutionand the role of
knowledge management (KM) in aligning library services in government-owned university
libraries in Southeast Nigeria with 5IR goals. A descriptive survey research design was
adopted for this study. Three research questions guided the study. The population
comprised librarians in government-owned universities in Southeast Nigeria, with a
sample size of 120 participants selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data
was collected using a validated questionnaire titled “Questionnaire on Knowledge
Management in the 5th Industrial Revolution by Librarians” (QKMIRL), and the
instrument's reliability was established using Cronbach's alpha. An overall coefficient of
0.78 was obtained. Data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The findings
revealed that while librarians demonstrated a moderate awareness and adoption of KM
practices, their application remains limited due to insufficient infrastructure, inadequate
funding, and lack of training. Challenges in integrating emerging technologies included
poor internet access, outdated digital tools, and a lack of advanced technical skills. To
enhance KM practices, the study recommended strategies such as regular capacity-building
programs, increased investment in digital tools, and improved funding to support digital
transformation in libraries.
Keywords: 5th Industrial revolution, Knowledge management, Librarians, University
libraries, South-East, Nigeria
Publication Date: 2026-02-05