Managing Library Staff Diversity for Effective Service Delivery: The Case of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

This research examines the influence of staff diversity management on service delivery effectiveness in academic libraries, with particular reference to the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State, Nigeria. Three fundamental dimensions of diversity, namely demographic, organisational, and socio-cognitive, as well as the moderating effects of age and gender, are discussed in the study. Using a descriptive survey research design, data was collected from 22 librarians using a structured questionnaire and analysed with descriptive statistical techniques. The results validate the intense demand for diversity in digital competencies, identify psychological as well as systemic obstacles to managing diversity, and deduce the desire for inclusive, experiential staff development approaches. The research maintains that effective workplace diversity management improves service quality and suggests context-sensitive measures, including inclusive training and investing in digital infrastructure. The results provide practical advice to academic library managers who seek to improve service delivery by adopting diversity-sensitive human resource practices.