Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Abstract
Information has remained the most sought for ingredient for development and only means through which one can clear his state of uncertainty. This study is a survey aimed at ascertaining the functions of the library as an agent of transformation of correctional centre inmates using the Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Correctional Centre as a case in point. The study was guided by five (5) research objectives and questions while the research employed descriptive survey design. The primary instruments used for data collection are a two-set questionnaire titled: Correctional Centre Facility Based Questionnaire (CCFBQ) and Inmate Questionnaire (IQ), direct observation and interview. The CCFBQ was used to generate data on the correctional centre library, the nature and its collections and management whereas, 480 IQ were administered to obtain data on the inmates’ access to the library materials, involvement in educational programmes, information seeking behaviour and nature of access to information resources. The data gathered for this study were analyzed using tables, frequency and percentages whereas, figures were used to present the data obtained in respect of research questions 4 and 5. The findings revealed that libraries and correctional centres in Nigeria are bedeviled with myriad of challenges including: inadequate qualified personnel; poor funding, negligence on the part of management and moribund public power supply and that the libraries are performing below standard as transformation agents as a result of identified challenges but they all believed that centre libraries have prominent role to play in the realization of both centres and inmates’ reformation as transformation agent. It is against this backdrop, that recommendations were made which include, tackling all identified challenges by both the government and management.