Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Stock acquisition is a critical aspect of library management that involves the selection, procurement, and organization of library materials to meet the information needs of users. This research project focuses on stock acquisition in the Alex Ekwueme Library at the Federal Polytechnic, considering the challenges and strategies for enhancing the library's collection development. The study employs a qualitative research approach, utilizing interviews, observation, and document analysis to gather data on the current state of stock acquisition in the library. The research findings reveal several challenges facing the library in acquiring new stocks, including limited budget allocation, outdated selection criteria, and inadequate staff training in collection development. To address these challenges, the study proposes a set of strategies for enhancing stock acquisition in the library. These strategies include the revision of selection criteria to align with users' needs and curriculum requirements, increased collaboration with faculty members for recommendations, and the implementation of staff training programs on collection development practices. Furthermore, the research suggests the adoption of innovative technologies for stock acquisition, such as automated selection tools and digital acquisition platforms, to streamline the procurement process and improve the efficiency of acquiring new materials. Additionally, the study recommends the establishment of partnerships with other libraries and information agencies for resource sharing and collaborative collection development initiatives. The findings of this research provide valuable insights into the current state of stock acquisition in the Alex Ekwueme Library and offer practical recommendations for improving collection development practices. By implementing the proposed strategies, the library can enhance its stock acquisition process, expand its collection to meet the diverse information needs of users, and ultimately improve the quality of library services provided to the academic community. Overall, this research project contributes to the literature on library management and collection development by highlighting the importance of effective stock acquisition practices in ensuring the relevance and currency of library collections. The study underscores the need for continuous assessment and improvement of stock acquisition processes to support the educational and research activities of the academic community served by the library.

Thesis Overview

This research work deals with stock acquisition with a reference to Alex Ekwueme Library, Federal polytechnic, Oko.

Acquisition is a means by which books and non book materials are collected in a library. The librarian glossary (2001) defined acquisition as a process of acquiring or the department concerned with acquiring for the library. In chapter one of this research study, there are problems militating against stock acquisition in Alex Ekwueme library such as lack of fund to build up the library stock, there is a problem of staffing and inadequacy of reading space and furniture.

Chapter two of this research study deals with literature review which discusses the following headings: acquisition, acquisition policy, library materials/stocks, types of library stocks, methods of acquisition, problems of stock acquisition and selection tools. Chapter three of this research study is research methodology which the research adopted survey research/designs because survey deals with interview and questionnaires.

Chapter four of this research study discusses presentation and analysis of data which were drawn and gathered from the research questions as follows:

1. What are various methods of acquiring library materials at Alex Ekwueme library?
2. Are there procedures of book acquisition in the library

• What are the needs for stock acquisition in academic libraries?

1. What types of materials are to be acquired in the library?

Based on the findings, the researcher indicated that the main reason for stock acquisition is for dissemination of information.

Chapter five deals with summary, conclusion, recommendation and suggestion for further study. The researcher recommends that the institution management should not depend on government grant alone but should try to allocate more funds for the acquisition of library stocks/materials.