Access to and use of public library services in Nigeria
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Date
2017
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
http://sajlis.journals.ac.za doi:10.7553/83-1-1639
Abstract
The study investigated the factors hampering access to and use of public library (urban and rural)
services in Nigeria. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods were employed through the
administration of a questionnaire to users in both urban and rural public libraries in Nigeria and
conducting interviews with the public librarians. The objectives of the study centred on identifying
awareness and utilisation of library services, including utilisation patterns. The study also sought to
investigate levels of satisfaction among users as well as make recommendations for improved service
delivery. The population was the registered public library user group from which 394 users were
randomly sampled from twelve purposively selected libraries – two from each of the six regions. The
respondents were mainly an educated male user group representing a wide variety of occupations.
Awareness of services was restricted to a few services, and accessibility to the major library services
was found to be a challenge to many. Utilisation patterns indicated infrequent use of only a few services,
and very low satisfaction with what is being offered. Challenges identified included unawareness of
services, too few copies of materials and lack of information literacy skills. Recommendations included
the enhancement of community participation in decision-making concerning services, that relevant and
enough materials be supplied, and that effective marketing be employed to improve access and to
promote services among users and potential users.