Fostering innovation for library and information science graduate employability: alumni and employer roles in two Nigerian universities

Abstract

Innovation driving new methodologies and techniques is a primary catalyst for organizational growth and competitiveness in the contemporary labor market. This study examined the roles of alumni bodies and industry employers in fostering innovation to enhance the employability of Library and Information Science (LIS) graduates within two Nigerian universities. Guided by three research objectives and three hypotheses, the study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The target population comprised 108 postgraduate students and educators, from whom 40 usable responses were retrieved via a structured Google Forms questionnaire distributed through WhatsApp. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) to answer the research questions, utilizing a 3.0 benchmark criterion for item acceptance. The findings revealed that exposing graduates to diverse areas of innovation both within and outside their core discipline significantly enhances their competitiveness in the labor market. Additionally, industry employers play a critical role in facilitating a smooth professional transition for graduates. The study concludes that alumni associations and employers, acting as key institutional stakeholders, should collaborate to design and implement structured, innovation-driven training programs. These interventions are essential for equipping LIS graduates with the practical, market-ready skills required for sustainable employment.