Traditional and technological methods of knowledge sharing: insights from librarians using UTAUT

This research investigated the knowledge-sharing strategies used by librarians in Nigeria, emphasising both conventional and modern approaches. The embedded mixed methods research design was used, with the sample including all 114 librarians from the selected universities. The instruments used for gathering data comprised a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. The numerical data was evaluated using SPSS, while the qualitative data underwent thematic content analysis (TCA). The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) served as the theoretical underpinning for the research. Although the study found that librarians in the institutions surveyed share their knowledge through both traditional and technological means, the majority of the time, traditional methods like in-person interactions, meetings, training, mentorship, brainstorming, peer support, and communities of practice were used. Librarians proficient in information exchange approaches and technological methods validated the adoption of these technologies. The Nigerian Library's online forum, research gate/academia.edu, instant messaging, social networking sites, email, and online discussion forums were among the methods utilised to exchange information. Furthermore, with a mean score of 19.83, the librarians gave the technology approaches the highest ranking, while the conventional methods received a mean score of 9.88. According to the study's findings, librarians are aware of both forms of information exchange and favour employing technology approaches. On the basis of the results of the current investigation, recommendations were made. Key Words:Knowledge Sharing, Librarians, Southwest, Technological, Traditional, UTAUT