Revitalizing the School Library System in Nigeria: The Way Forward

Abstract

This is a conceptual paper that explores the expected roles of school libraries and the current state of school libraries in Nigeria. The overall objective of this paper is to examine the state of school libraries with a view to proffer recommendations on revitalizing the library system in Nigeria. The specific objectives are to explore the expectations from school libraries; situation surrounding school libraries as well as way forward to the enumerated challenges thereby suggesting promulgation and enforcement of school library legislation in Nigeria. The issues with school libraries surround functionality, funding, personnel, capacity building and service provision. As a way forward, the paper suggested a virile school library system in Nigeria with special emphasis on adequate funding, sensitization programme, recruitment of qualified personnel, capacity building, adherence to minimum standard, enforcement of school library legislation, among others. In conclusion, sustainable National Development cannot be attained in Nigeria with the dearth of school libraries, as part of recommendations is the need for all stakeholders to give priority to the needs of school libraries in Nigeria.