Influence of LIS Curriculum and Information Services on Empowerment of Rural Dwellers in Two States and the FCT-Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated the influence of LIS curriculum and information services on empowerment of rural dwellers in Jigawa and Niger state and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja. Three research questions guided the study. Descriptive research design was used with the target population of the staff of public libraries, agriculture and community health extension services as well as rural dwellers in Jigawa and Niger state and FCT, Abuja. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to purposively select nine Local Government Areas/Area Councils from the two states (Jigawa and Niger) and FCT Abuja, there and then selected18 rural communities from the nine sampled LGAs/ACS. The researchers randomly select few respondents (rural dwellers) from18 rural communities in the selected LGAs for the purpose of interviews. Interview guide and document examination were the data collection instruments. Interview sessions were conducted for the selected respondents. Information was gathered through narration using interview guides and document analysis of National Universities Commission (2018) Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS). Results showed that the Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards for undergraduate programmes in Nigerian Universities contains rich aspects of library and information services to rural communities. Interview conducted for public libraries and agriculture/community health extension staff revealed that document delivery services, public enlightenment, and translation services were mostly provided through outreach/extension services unit of Agriculture and Community Health sectors though not regular. Public libraries provided little or no information services in the areas of outreach/extension and document delivery services. Challenges to information service delivery identified include: absence of libraries in rural communities, transport and mobility, language barrier, telephone service, road network, dilapidated primary schools. It was concluded that with little or absence of public library services to rural dwellers result to widespread illiteracy, low income/productivity, etc. The study recommended that the responsible Ministries and Agencies should ensure that the social amenities like road, schools, community libraries, rural hospitals and farm centres be provided.