This study investigated reward systems and research productivity among librarians in university libraries in Nigeria. Correlational research design was adopted for this study. Population of the study consisted of 832 librarians in university libraries across Nigeria, from which a sample of 249 librarians were selected using stratified random sampling technique to ensure fair representation across various institutional types. Data collection was conducted using a structured questionnaire, while data analysis involved the use of mean, standard deviation and Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). Findings revealed inadequate reward systems (grand mean=2.67) available to librarians across three major categories: intrinsic rewards, extrinsic rewards, and social rewards. The study further revealed a moderate extent of research productivity among the librarians (2.72). It also showed very strong positive correlations between reward systems (0.995) and research productivity. Furthermore, a strong combined effect of these variables on research productivity was also established. The study concluded that the implementation of effective and motivating reward systems, will significantly improve their research output. It was recommended that university administrators should redesign reward structures to include incentives for research outputs. This may include publication bonuses, annual research awards, promotion based on research productivity, and access to research grants. Librarians should also receive recognition through non-monetary incentives such as career development opportunities. It is recommended that university libraries and parent institutions organize frequent training workshops and seminars aimed at strengthening librarians’ research capacities.
Ideh et al. (Thu,) studied this question.