CONSERVATIVE PRACTICES OF INFORMATION RESOURCES BY LIBRARIES FOR ENHANCED COLLECTION USEFULNESS IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN ENUGU STATE

ABSTRACT: The broad objective of this study  is to examine conservative practices of information resources by libraries for enhanced collection usefulness in University libraries in Enugu State. The study adopted the survey descriptive research design and with the aid of convenience sampling method, the researcher purposively selected one hundred and fifty (150) participant for the study. Self- structure questionnaire was issued to the respondent of which one hundred forty-one (141) was retrieved and validated for the study. Data was analyzed using simple percentage, presented in frequencies and tables.  From the responses obtained and analysed, the findings revealed that the techniques and methods for preserving and conserving of information materials in Rivers state University central library includes; use of photocopying machine, use of digitization facilities lamination equipment, bindery, fumigation, cleaning and dusting of the library materials, reformation, microfilming of newspaper, brittle or fragile paper based materials, copying audiotapes and video materials and electronic digitizing, floor cleaning, shelf clearing, collection condition surveys, pest inspections, environmental monitoring and a plan for disaster preparedness and response plan. The study therefore recommended that a good policy on short-term to long-term preservation and conservation should be formulated. Also, professionally trained conservators should be recruited, and training and retraining of staff should be encouraged. Moreso, there should be an annual budget allocation for preservation and conservation. Furthermore, a well-equipped bindery section with trained staff should be established. Also, there should be regular orientation on the preservation and conservation of library materials.