Libraries and information services as tool for sustaining true democracy in Nigeria

Abstract

The paper provide highlight on the role of information decision making which enhances full participation of citizens in democracy so that they can choose the leader they like through voting. Nigerian libraries (schools, ecademics, public and national) are ecpexted to acquire, stock and provides current materials relevants to politicals information, civic duties and democracy in Nigeria. Libraries generally should collect materials made up books, posters, pamphlets, video, computer disc, online resources reflecting political information civic duties, etc. they are to provide public enlightenment, adult literacy programme for citizens, help in conflict resolution by providing adequate political and legal information to judges and lawyers, etc. internet services can also be offered in libraries. National Library of Nigeria collects information materials which should include those of democracy from publishers and compile bibliography. Inhibiting factors to the provision of libraries and information services include: inaccessibility to information by Nigerians, inadequate ICT facilities, inadequate public and school libraries in Nigeria. Recommendations are proffered amongst include, librarians should establish relationship with their parent institutions; full approval of the freedom in information bill; legislation on public and school libraries, societal re-orientation and information services in the current democratic culture among Nigerian societies.