Abstract
This study investigates challenges and enhancement strategies for collaborative research
practices and ICT integration among LIS professionals in universities in North-Eastern
Nigeria. Guided by two research questions, the study adopted a descriptive survey design.
Data were collected using a validated questionnaire structured on a four-point rating scale.
Questionnaires were administered to the entire population of 120 LIS professionals, of which
110 were returned, representing a response rate of 91.7%. The data were analysed using
descriptive statistics, specifically mean and standard deviation (SD), with the analysis
conducted using SPSS. The findings revealed that the respondents agreed that all the ten
listed items were challenges facing collaborative research and ICT integration, since they
were rated above the criterion mean. Also, a grand mean of 2.98 and SD of 0.70 indicate that
respondents expressed same opinion on obstacles to collaboration and ICT integration. The
results show that the respondents are of the view that all the listed items were strategies for
enhancing collaborative research practices and ICT integration. This was indicated in all
rated above the criterion mean score and a grand mean of 3.10 and SD of 0.65, which shows the respondents' agreement to the listed strategies. Among other recommendations, the
study advocates the provision of stable internet access and basic ICT infrastructure within
library and LIS departments to ensure both effective collaborative practices and quality
research outputs.
Keywords: Collaborative practices, effective research output, library and information science
professionals, universities and North-Eastern Nigeria.
Publication Date: 2026-10-31