Shift work in Nigerian academic libraries

The phenomenon of the shift work culture is quite significant in academic library services, and to eliminate it entirely is too idealistic. In attempting to provide an effective service to users, libraries have to extend their closing time into the evenings. Continuing complaints from staff working shifts at the University of Ilorin Library may affect the level of service provided if the complaints are not addressed. This study gathers information about the views of the staff concerning shift duty, and how they cope with the problems caused by shift rotation. Using information gathered by the use of questionnaires and interviews, shift rotation is described together with the problems raised, and suggestions offered for ways to manage a vexing issue.