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Open and Distance Learning (ODL) is gradually gaining ground in Africa. Nigeria is a newcomer in the Open and Distance Learning paradigm. The experiences of several open and distance learning institutions such as the Open University of United Kingdom (OUUK), Athabasca University (Canada's Open University), Open University of Hong Kong, Indira Gandhi National Open University, (IGNOU), and University of South Africa (UNISA), have provided a baseline for the take-off of the only Open University in Nigeria - the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). The successful take-off of NOUN is not without the incorporation of functional libraries. Effective library support to distance learners is mandatory for qualitative delivery of instruction and learning. This is where the developments in information and telecommunications are potent. This gave impetus to the development of virtual library services or library without walls. This development has definite benefits to distance learners. Developed and developing countries are now creating virtual learning environments and libraries without walls to reach multitudes of learners at various locations. This paper examines the general experiences of ODL in Africa, the evolution of ODL in Nigeria and the structure of library services provided to distant learners, particularly in Nigeria. It examines the challenges in creating and delivering a library without walls for distance education and the prospects of such a library without walls in a developing country like Nigeria. The paper will also present a discussion on how NOUN is developing creative solutions to the challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is no gainsaying that academic libraries are a natural goldmine for the University community and for the general public as a whole. Extant literature has shown that academic libraries are source of enrichment for curriculum and research thus leading to academic productivity and global visibility of the parent institution. The realization of this fact has gone a long way in enhancing the status of academic libraries globally by changing the orientation of library clienteles and also correct the misconception in which they perceive the library as an antique, a reading place and has little or nothing to offer them. Thus, 21st-century academic library is now being viewed as an invaluable resource and a gold mine which is supposed to be harnessed and cherished by library clienteles. The paper, therefore, looks at academic libraries and how her roles have changed due to the technological innovation brought to fore by Social Media Technologies (SMT). An emerging technology which makes academic library pervasive, thus not constraint but time, means and location. The study also takes into cognizance how these technologies can be leveraged for clienteles in accessing the wealth of the priceless resources the library has to offer so as to improve the research output of staff, students and faculty members of these institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]