By Olaoye Oyewole

In a bid to enhance its Library services, a delegation from Mountain Top University (MTU) led by their University Librarian, Dr. Helen Akinade embarked on a visit to the Nimbe Adedipe Library (NAL) in the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB).

Before visiting NAL, the Team paid a Courtesy-Visit to the Vice-Chancellor, and they were warmly received by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde who commended the initiative citing the encouragement from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for institutions to collaborate for the advancement of the educational sector.

During discussions, Prof. Kehinde urged the MTU Team to explore avenues for further collaboration beyond Library services. He noted the importance of leveraging each other’s strengths for mutual benefit.

Dr. Akinade expressed appreciation for the hospitality extended by FUNAAB and lauded the professionalism demonstrated by Dr. Abayomi Owolabi, the University Librarian at FUNAAB.

MTU Librarian, Dr. Helen Akinade, presenting books as a mark of appreciation to the University Librarian, Dr. Abayomi Owolabi, during the MTU’s tour of NAL

Photo credit: Olaoye Oyewole

She highlighted the significant achievements of the Nimbe Adedipe Library, stressing the need for collaboration to replicate such success.

Moreover, Dr. Akinade proposed various avenues for partnership between the two universities, including opportunities for staff exchange programmes and joint research initiatives.

She, however, observed the potential for fruitful collaborations in the future.

Responding, Dr. Owolabi advised the visiting delegation to utilise the knowledge gained during their understudy effectively, recommending a direct procurement of journals from authors to ensure authenticity and affordability.

Additionally, he suggested digitalisation of the library system to facilitate easier access to resources.

Besides, Dr. Owolabi encouraged MTU to establish libraries in all their faculties and prioritise the showcasing of new books to the university community.

He restated the importance of maintaining records and marketing the library effectively.

The visit concluded with a tour of the facilities at the Nimbe Adedipe Library, during which staff members provided insights into their roles and responsibilities within the library system.

The collaboration between MTU and FUNAAB holds promise for the advancement of library services and academic excellence in both universities.