Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Date of this Version
6-2022
Document Type
Article
Abstract
The role of publicity in all facets of disciplines can not be overemphasized especially in promoting library services in the area of information gathering and dissemination regardless of the forms of the information – traditional or modern ways in this era of information and communication technology (ICT). This study examined the impact of publicity on the development of library services in Ifelodun Local government, Kwara state, Nigeria. The social descriptive survey research method was adopted; this is due to the fact that the population is large covering eighteen (18) wards and eight (8) districts. This type of research method is use to gather opinions of individuals on the challenges at hand. Sample was picked from the eight (8) districts (population) in Ifelodun local government. Random sampling technique was adopted using statistical tables so as to give equal opportunity to all. 20% of the total population, as recommended by Borg and Gall (2007), was used for the study. This rationale allows for generalization of findings of the study to the studied population. The major instrument was questionnaire which was complemented with interview and observation so that information that was gotten from one instrument can be revealed with other instrument(s). Data analysis was done using statistical tools such as Statistical Percentages for Social Sciences (SPSS) with charts, diagrams among others. The findings of the research revealed some of the services rendered by the public library to rural communities to include bookmobile service, referring of users to sister libraries, outreach program, among others. Also revealed that orientation to the user with a given priority, keeping track of user needs on a regular basis, promoting information system through publicity to existing and potential users, are some of the framework for achieving rural community. The study concluded that publicity is an important aspect of library development in rural communities and the role of library and librarians in the provision of information services to rural communities or dwellers should be prioritized. It was recommended that government need to be adequately supported in the form of provision of space and financial resources, adequate staffing in term of number and professional qualification needs to be provide, public libraries should strive to acquire information materials on the development of libraries and bring the materials to the awareness of library user, among others.