Public Library Services in Nigeria During and Post Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) Era: Roles and Challenges

Abstract

Pandemics have always been challenging times in every society. However, response and recovery periods are crucial times that every member of the society must come together to work as one. The COVID-19 pandemic has created a new reality and upended the norm that we have become used to. Recovery periods are associated with general uncertainty with people eager to get quality, relevant and timely information from the government and other relevant agencies. Libraries from time immemorial have played crucial roles during pandemics. The study explored the roles/functions of public libraries and information dissemination by public libraries during the pandemic and the challenges within the Nigerian environment. The study proposed some key roles that public libraries, librarians and information specialists can play during the pandemic include: 1) public awareness on preventive measures and management of the disease where possible 2) supporting front line researchers, clinicians and faculty with latest research and evidence available, 3) still provide traditional services albeit using alternative ways leveraging on technologies during the lockdown/reduced movement. The study recommends: 1) empowering public libraries with information materials and funds to expand their services so as to assist in dousing fake news, 2) Rebuilding and equipping old and dilapidated libraries and constructing new and modern public libraries at all levels of government, and 3) Continuous skilling and reskilling of librarians in public libraries for service excellence.