NECESSITY FOR RE-ENGINEERING PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICES FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND INTEGRATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Public library services stand at a vantage point of driving growth and development in the society. An enlightened and educated society is potentially a developed society. This paper discusses the necessities for re-engineering public library services for national development and integration. The aim is to unravel ways to improve the quality of services in public libraries in Nigeria through a thorough review of related literature. It reveals areas of concern in public libraries which includes; poor condition of public libraries, inadequate provision of funds for library development, lack of engaging the community in activities that can improve their well-being politically, economically, educationally and otherwise and inability these libraries to measure up with the best global practices among others. The paper discusses ways to achieve the goal of promoting national development and integration through promotion of education, agricultural extension services, democratic practices, information literacy skills coaching, peace education, development of health sector and the likes. It is recommended that existing public libraries in Nigeria should be well funded and equipped with modern facilities so as to provide access to myriad information sources. Enlightenment and public education about libraries should be taken to the doorsteps of the communities. Librarians working in public libraries should be trained and retrained. Government at all levels should partner with other donor organisation, enlightenment and public education should be taken to the doorsteps of the users.