TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT. ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS……………………………………………………….iii
CHAPTER ONE. 1
INTRODUCTION. 1
1.1 Background to the Study. 1
Statement of the Problem.. 4
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 5
1.4 Research Questions. 6
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 6
1.6 Significance of the Study. 6
1.7 Scope of the Study. 7
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 7
1.9 Organization of the Study. 8
1.10 Definition of Terms. 8
CHAPTER TWO.. 12
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE. 12
2.1 Introduction. 12
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 12
2.2.1 Social Learning Theory. 12
2.2.2 Constructivist Theory. 12
2.2.3 Lifelong Learning Theory. 13
2.2.4 Information Literacy Theory. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 14
2.3.1 Overview.. 14
2.3.2 The Importance of Literacy. 14
2.4 Empirical Review.. 17
2.5 Summary of Chapters. 20
CHAPTER THREE. 21
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY. 21
3.1 Introduction. 21
3.2 Research Design. 21
3.3 Population of the Study. 21
3.4 Sampling Technique and Sample Size. 22
3.5 Data Collection Methods. 22
3.6 Instrument Validation and Reliability. 23
3.7 Method of Data Analysis. 23
3.8 Ethical Considerations. 23
3.9 Scope and Limitations of the Study. 24
CHAPTER FOUR. 25
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION. 25
4.1 Preamble. 25
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 25
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one: 29
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 41
4.5 Discussion of Findings. 42
CHAPTER FIVE. 44
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 44
5.1 Summary Of Findings. 44
5.2 Conclusion. 46
4.3 Recommendations. 47
REFERENCES. 49
APPENDICES. 52
Appendix I: Research Questionnaire: 52
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Illiteracy is a profound personal tragedy that reflects a incapacity of an individual to realize their full potential and break free from the constraints of ignorance and poverty, frequently as a result of uncontrollable circumstances (Murphy, 2006). Graff (2008) emphasizes the importance of literacy in promoting individual and societal progress, which underlines why it is a key component of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In honor of this significance, UNESCO has designated September 8th each year as International Literacy Day. It is a serious socio-economic problem as the high illiteracy rate threatens the overall progress of any community. According to UNESCO (2017), illiteracy is often associated with underdevelopment, poverty, lower life expectancy and political oppression. It is evident that literacy is crucial to overall development because those who are educated and literate are more likely to actively engage in initiatives that support and enhance the sustainable growth of their communities. The ability to read, write, process information, and communicate effectively are all components of literacy. He goes on to say that literacy is the foundation of our collective wisdom and knowledge and allows it to be passed on to others. The mechanism is literacy (Alokan et al., 2012 in Harrison, 2017).
Literacy plays an important role in the development of every country. A country that fails to embrace literacy is bound to have a lot of problems. According to Musingafi and Chiwanza (2012), “Literacy affects labour quality and flexibility, employment, training opportunities, income from work and wider participation in civic society.”
The literacy level in Nigeria today is on the decline, and lack of literacy remains a hurdle that hampers the efforts of the government towards fixing this problem efficiently. The nation’s commitment to literacy as the key to a better future are inadequate. According to data from the World Bank, as reported by Microtrends, Nigeria's literacy rate from 1991 to 2020 stands at 62.0%, with an annual change of 10.94% from 2008 to 2020. Moreso, data from the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-formal Education (NMEC) an editorial in THISDAY Newspaper (2019) affirmed that 35 percent of Nigerian adults are illiterate. Considering this statistic, it is worrisome to note that that over one-third of the adult population remains uneducated. Building on this, the editorial further states that literacy is critical for the growth of a country and should be given much attention because it is intrinsically linked to the overall quality of life. Moreover, literacy helps member of a community unlock the door to many opportunities in the global environment.
This situation necessitates significant action. In light of the current context, it is imprinted upon the libraries to address this challenge because, ideally, they are situated to advocate for literacy advancement and, therefore, they need to devise more sustainable functional approaches while adopting a more thorough perspective to advance literacy in Nigeria.
Libraries, as organizations dedicated to the dissemination of knowledge, foster an environment that encourages learning and individual development in addition to providing access to literature and information. They work as centers where people can freely engage with resources that enhance their literacy skills; they also serve the larger purpose of education and the society’s development goals (Adeleke, 2020).
In Nigeria, the advancement of literacy through libraries is essential, especially given the current statistics on literacy levels in Nigeria. Libraries largely fill this gap by offering their programs for users of different ages and literacies, to keep education open for all. Initiatives such as reading clubs, workshops and storytelling competitions, for example, do not only help children and adults learn to read well; such projects also promote problem-solving skills and creativity (Oduwaiye, 2019).
In addition, as important centers of learning for people throughout their lifetime, libraries in Nigeria are indispensable resources for lifelong learning, adapting to the evolving needs of the community. Today's sophisticated technology has led many libraries to begin incorporating additional online resources, such as databases, e-books, and instructional materials. Their role in lifelong learning is improved by this modification, which enables people to pursue self-directed learning outside of traditional classroom settings (Adetoro, 2022). By providing training in informed digital skills, libraries equip patrons with competencies required to thrive with the information enabled environment (Ojo, 2021).
In view of the above, this research will set out to establish the contribution of libraries in the promotion of literacy in Nigeria with special focus on Ibom E-Library.Bottom of Form
Statement of the Problem
Despite the essential role libraries play in promoting literacy and lifelong learning in Nigeria, significant challenges hinder their effectiveness. One major issue is the lack of adequate funding and resources, which limits the ability of libraries to provide up-to-date materials and programs. According to Oduwaiye (2019), many public libraries are underfunded and unable to acquire new books, technology, or staff training, leading to outdated collections and insufficient services. This resource gap significantly affects their capacity to engage communities and foster a culture of reading and learning, particularly in rural areas where access to information is even more limited.
Additionally, there is a pressing need for awareness and community engagement to maximize the impact of library services on literacy and lifelong learning. Many individuals in Nigeria remain unaware of the resources and programs available at local libraries, which results in underutilization of these facilities. As noted by Alabi (2021), educational outreach initiatives are crucial for informing the public about the benefits of libraries and how they can serve as vital instruments for personal and professional development. Without concerted efforts to raise awareness and increase community participation, libraries may struggle to fulfill their potential as catalysts for improving literacy rates and supporting lifelong learning in Nigeria.Top of Form
Bottom of Form
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the role of libraries in promoting literacy and lifelong learning in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the impact of library services on improving literacy rates in Nigeria.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of libraries in fostering lifelong learning among Nigerians.
- To identify the challenges faced by libraries in promoting literacy and lifelong learning in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What is the correlation between library usage and literacy levels among different age groups in Nigeria?
- What are the most popular library services and resources utilized by Nigerian adults for continuing education and personal development?
- What are the major barriers to library access and usage in different regions of Nigeria?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: Libraries in Nigeria do not significantly contribute to the promotion of literacy and lifelong learning among their users.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Library Science sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analyzed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Ibom e-Library. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Literacy
The ability to read, write, and understand information, which is essential for effective communication and participation in society. In Nigeria, literacy encompasses not only basic reading and writing skills but also digital literacy and critical thinking.
2. Lifelong Learning
An ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge for personal or professional development. Libraries support lifelong learning by providing resources, programs, and access to information that encourage continuous education.
3. Public Libraries
Community-based institutions that provide free access to books, information, and various educational resources. In Nigeria, public libraries serve as essential hubs for literacy programs, cultural activities, and community engagement.
4. Information Literacy
The ability to locate, evaluate, and effectively use information. Libraries in Nigeria promote information literacy through workshops and resources that help individuals navigate the vast amount of information available in the digital age.
5. Digital Literacy
The skills required to effectively use digital technologies, including the internet and computers. Libraries play a crucial role in enhancing digital literacy in Nigeria, especially in rural areas where access to technology may be limited.
6. Community Engagement
The involvement of local populations in library activities and decision-making processes. Libraries in Nigeria foster community engagement through outreach programs, partnerships with schools, and collaboration with local organizations to promote literacy.
7. Access to Information
The ability to obtain and utilize information regardless of socioeconomic status. Libraries work to ensure equitable access to information resources, particularly in underserved areas of Nigeria, thus promoting literacy and educational opportunities for all.