Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the emerging trends and applications of computing in libraries. It involves programming computers to do things, which if done by humans, would be said to require intelligence. The ultimate promise of artificial intelligence in libraries is to develop computer systems or machines that think, behave, and in fact rival human intelligence, and this clearly has major implications on librarianship. The application of artificial intelligence in the library has become pervasive. They include expert systems for reference services, book reading and shelf-reading robots, virtual reality for immersive learning among others. Although the incorporation of artificial intelligence in libraries can be perceived to alienate librarians from their users, it will probably help libraries do more rather than taking over the jobs of librarians. It will enhance their services delivery. Artificial intelligence will greatly improve library operations and services and will upgrade and heighten the relevance of libraries in an ever-changing digital society.

Purpose The purpose of the study is to investigate the use of social media platforms in teaching/learning in the period of lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a survey method and an online questionnaire was designed using SurveyMonkey for data collection from students in the Department of Library and Information Science (LIS) in some universities in Nigeria. In total, 1,290 students and five lecturers participated in the survey from five universities in Nigeria. To supplement the data from the questionnaire, the five LIS lecturers were engaged in an interview. Findings The study found that Zoom and WhatsApp were used by the lecturers to deliver lectures to their students. Lecturers are always available, the opportunity to store lectures and files for re-use at convenience, allows for collaborative learning, sharing learning materials, freedom in asking lecturer questions and conducive learning at home were mentioned as some of the benefits of receiving an online lecture. Some challenges associated with electronic teaching and learning were also identified. The LIS lecturers interviewed mentioned some benefits and challenges of engaging in electronic teaching during the period of lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. Practical implications The research offered educators an additional method for teaching and learning in situations where physical contacts are not possible. Because electronic learning platforms are free and can be used at liberty, they require self-discipline and more responsibility from students and lecturers, which might be a challenge. It requires lecturers to generate new skills, be cognitively sensitive and well-sequenced. Social implications Teacher/students relationship can be improved significantly with the use of social media platforms for teaching and learning. Originality/value The study reported the use of social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Zoom in the teaching/learning process in the university system in a developing country context.

This chapter explored the concept and application of blockchain technology in libraries and information centers. Blockchain is one of the emerging technologies thriving in the fourth industrial revolution. It is the application of cryptography for creating a time-stamped, immutable, and dynamic database, distributed across nodes in a network. Although its emergence began with cryptocurrencies, advancement in this technology has given birth to a fourth generation of blockchain with industrial disruptive capabilities, cutting across various fields including library and information science. Accordingly, the application of blockchain in libraries and information centers was thoroughly examined. Specifically, the chapter underscored the application of blockchain in circulation services, collection development, storage and archiving of records, research data management, cataloging and classification, indexing and abstracting, digital first right (DFR), etc. Lastly, the merits and demerits of blockchain in libraries and information centers were furnished accordingly.

One of the most significant difficulties facing libraries and librarians is security. Theft, mutilation, as well as other maltreatment of information resources have posed a significant challenge to the library profession around the world. This study highlights the many physical, environmental, and digital data security systems that are used for library security purposes, as well as the various security measures used in modern libraries. The study looked at some electronic security systems, such as CCTV, RFID, 3M security systems, smart cards, biometrics, access control systems, electromagnetic systems, etc. that are deployed in libraries. The challenges facing library security systems were highlighted, and the study recommends that libraries should give priority to security in their budgets, purchase modern security devices, design and implement effective and efficient security policies, as well as sensitize users and personnel on security issues.