This study examines the availability, management, and utilization of serial resources by lecturers in Owerri metropolis, Nigeria. Serials comprising journals, conference proceedings, abstracts, magazines, and newspapers constitute the lifeblood of academic research and teaching, providing current and specialized information essential for scholarly productivity. Drawing on empirical studies conducted in Imo State universities, including Imo State University, Owerri, and the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, the paper reveals a paradoxical situation: while serials are available to a considerable extent, their accessibility and actual utilization by lecturers remain significantly low. Key challenges include inadequate funding, poor storage facilities, insufficient personnel, erratic power supply, and limited awareness of available resources. The study recommends increased budgetary allocations, enhanced staff training, automation of serials management systems, and proactive awareness campaigns to bridge the gap between serial availability and utilization, thereby strengthening the research and teaching capacity of Nigerian university lecturers.
Keywords: Availability, Lecturers, Nigeria, Owerri metropolis, Utilization, serials management, university libraries
