Demographic Characteristics, Awareness, and Utilization Patterns of Public Libraries in Nigeria: Implications for Promoting Access to Knowledge and User Engagement in Nigeria

Abstract

This study is on public libraries’ roles in helping achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) on Poverty Eradication in Nigeria. Poverty has long been a challenge that has faced humanity as many struggle to make ends meet and get a decent living for themselves. We live in an ‘Information Age’ where people equipped with the right information are able to make better decisions and better their lives. Public libraries exist as an information household that can provide people with the right information to better their status and quality of life as a whole. This study identified the demographic characteristics of public library users in Nigeria, investigated the level of awareness of public libraries, the frequency of use of the library, identified the reasons for visiting public libraries, the types of resources and services that users consult, and finally, suggested strategies that could be employed by public libraries in achieving the SDG goals on poverty eradication in Nigeria. A survey was carried out using online Google Forms as the data collection instrument. Questions were generated in line with the research objectives and a link to the form was shared on social media with 238 young adult Nigerians from 25 selected states across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. Findings revealed that 54.9% of male students that fall within the age range of 15-25 years from tertiary institutions form the highest number of public library users in Nigeria. Despite half of the respondents being aware of public libraries, the majority do not visit, with only a small percentage visiting on a daily basis. Borrowing books and other information materials as well as studying are the main reasons for visiting public libraries in Nigeria. The study recommended the importance of increasing awareness of public libraries, and partnership and collaboration with other libraries and organisations in rolling out programs on poverty eradication for youths.