Digital Documentation of Indigenous Languages as a Strategy for Cultural Heritage Sustainability in Academic Libraries in Cross River State, Nigeria

This study examined the role of digital documentation of indigenous languages in sustaining cultural heritage within academic libraries in Cross River State. The primary aim was to assess how metadata creation and digital recording practices contribute to the long-term preservation, accessibility, and usability of indigenous language resources. Employing a descriptive survey design, the study targeted 800 librarians and paraprofessional staff across six academic libraries, selecting a sample of 200 respondents through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, with 192 valid responses achieved (96% response rate). Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used for data analysis. The findings revealed that metadata creation significantly improves the discoverability, retrieval, and preservation of indigenous language resources. Digital recording practices, including audio and video documentation, were also identified as vital for capturing oral traditions and cultural expressions. Regression analysis demonstrated that both metadata creation and digital recording substantially predict cultural heritage sustainability. Consequently, the study concludes that digital documentation is integral to sustaining indigenous language heritage in academic libraries. It recommends investment in staff training, acquisition of digital recording equipment, the development of policies integrating metadata and recording practices, and the active involvement of indigenous communities in documentation initiatives.