Reposition Libraries Now, Says UNIZIK Librarian
A Librarian at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Professor Stella Ngozi Anasi, has called on governments in Nigeria to prioritise reforms aimed at repositioning libraries as engines of national development.
Professor Anasi made this call while delivering UNIZIK’s 122nd Inaugural Lecture titled “The Neglected Goldmine: Repositioning Nigerian Libraries at a Critical Crossroads.”
In her lecture, she lamented the persistent neglect of libraries in Nigeria, citing challenges such as inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, lack of ICT facilities, and generally unconducive learning environments, despite the critical role libraries play in national development.
According to her, “Despite the widely recognised contributions of libraries to economic and national development, libraries in Nigeria have suffered enormous neglect for many years.
Libraries in Nigeria face a myriad of challenges, ranging from insufficient funding and dilapidated buildings to a lack of information and communication technology infrastructure and unconducive learning environments.
From school libraries to public libraries, from academic libraries to the National Library of Nigeria—the apex library—the story remains the same.”
Professor Anasi, the current University Librarian, decried the poor state of libraries and questioned the government’s commitment to their development.
She noted that funds allocated to libraries in many institutions are often diverted to other projects with more immediately visible economic benefits, leaving libraries to struggle with inadequate resources and infrastructure.
She further stated, “The development and growth of libraries are not top priorities for the government. Funds allocated to libraries are frequently diverted to other projects and facilities whose economic benefits are easier to quantify. Even in tertiary institutions, where libraries enrich the curriculum and enhance research productivity, the neglect is glaring. Libraries in these institutions are not given the attention they deserve.”
Professor Anasi, a Professor of Library, Archival, and Information Science as well as a Commonwealth Fellow, observed that despite these challenges, libraries have continued to adapt and evolve to meet the changing needs of 21st-century users. She emphasised that their capacity for innovation has helped sustain their relevance in the face of ongoing neglect.
She warned that libraries are not peripheral institutions but constitute vital intellectual infrastructure upon which nations are built. She maintained that investing in libraries guarantees not only national development but also social and intellectual sovereignty.
Highlighting the urgency of reform, she called for deliberate efforts to unlock the full potential of libraries in driving the country’s development agenda. She urged governments at all levels, policymakers, and the general public to change their perceptions and attitudes towards libraries and librarians, while fostering collaboration to improve information service delivery.
“The sustainability and development of libraries should be a top government priority. Governments at all levels in Nigeria must demonstrate fiscal commitment to library development. Adequate and consistent budgetary allocations should be provided to enable libraries to deploy cutting-edge technologies and resources in support of teaching, learning, and research,” she said.
She also called on government agencies and relevant parastatals to expedite the review of policies and regulations that would facilitate the provision of technological platforms and infrastructure for libraries nationwide.
Professor Anasi used the occasion to highlight her professional achievements, including research awards, honours, and her contributions to Nnamdi Azikiwe University, where she has served as University Librarian.
Earlier in his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of UNIZIK, Professor Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie, described libraries as the lifeline of society and essential to the educational development of any nation. He emphasised that inaugural lectures are integral to university culture, providing a platform for professors to showcase their research across various disciplines. He encouraged researchers to think innovatively and translate their findings into practical solutions to societal challenges.
The well-attended lecture was held at the Zephaniah Madubuko Auditorium, Faculty of Social Sciences, and attracted scholars, industry leaders, and members of the academic community.
In recognition of her academic contributions, Professor Anasi was decorated with a commemorative medal for delivering the University’s 122nd Inaugural Lecture.
