Innovation and Creativity among Library and Information Science Undergraduates

The Industrial Trainees’ Experience

Abstract

The study focused on innovation and creativity among Library and Information Science (LIS) industrial trainees. Descriptive survey design was employed for the study. A population of 79 industrial trainees at the Danbaba Danfulani Suntai Library (DDSL), Jalingo were the subjects of the research. The entire population was studied using the census sampling technique. A researcher-structured questionnaire was instrument for data collection. 79 copies of the questionnaire were administered on-the-spot to the industrial trainees but 73 copies were retrieved and found suitable for data analysis. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics of mean scores and standard deviation presented in tables and suitable graphic illustrations. Subjecting the trainees to hands-on participation and organization of lectures on innovations and creativity were among the methods adopted by the Library for encouraging the students to develop innovative and creative ideas. The findings further revealed that spending many hours reading about new ideas and often visiting the internet for modern developments, are part of the activities done by the students towards improved innovation and creativity. Factors such as the absence of makerspace for innovation and creativity in the Library and the absence of a guide on how to develop innovative and creative ideas were among the factors limiting the students’ involvement in innovation and creativity. The study concluded that engaging in innovation and creative ideas remains critical in the present dispensation. Therefore the study recommends the need for libraries and other places of industrial attachment to create a healthy and provocative atmosphere for innovation and creativity to thrive as well as ensure the provision of adequate mentoring for innovations and creative ideas, among other things.