Professional Competencies of Library Staff in Federal Polytechnics in Edo and Delta States

This study assessed the professional competencies of library staff in federal polytechnics in Edo and Delta States, South South Nigeria. The competency of library staff is a critical determinant of the quality and relevance of library services provided to academic communities. A descriptive survey design was employed, and data were gathered from 65 library staff across three federal polytechnics using a structured questionnaire based on the Special Libraries Association competencies framework adapted for the Nigerian context. Findings revealed that while traditional cataloguing and reference competencies were reasonably strong, digital competencies including database administration, metadata management, and e-resource licensing were significantly weak. Many staff had not attended any continuing professional development programme within the preceding three years. The study recommended that polytechnic library management establish annual training budgets, require staff participation in mandatory professional development activities, and partner with the Nigerian Library Association to deliver relevant competency-building workshops. Keywords: professional competencies, library staff, federal polytechnics, Edo State, Delta State.