The Role of Nigerian Library Association in Continuous Development of Librarians in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper reviews The Role of NLA in the Continuous Development of Librarians in Nigeria with specific focus on librarian and information profession. NLA has been in the forefront of the development of library profession in Nigeria. The objectives of NLA Includes; To unite persons interested in Libraries, Librarianship and Information services; To safeguard and promote the professional interests of librarians; To promote the establishment and development of libraries and information centre; The paper highlighted the factors that have promoted discussions of continuous professional development for librarianship which includes; the vast growth of new knowledge; introduction of new technology in libraries and an increasing highly educated populace. The paper also explained the thirteen special interest groups of the NLA currently in existence such as; Academics and Research Libraries (ARL) Association of Government Libraries (AGOL); Association of News Media Librarians of Nigeria (ANLON) to mention but a few. The paper explains the professional development as a lifelong learning and is indispensable for professional growth and instrumental for sustaining one’s competence. The library can also become more productive with new skills and knowledge acquired through professional development programmes. The paper further highlighted the various professional development programs put in place by librarians such as seminars, workshops, conferences, mentorship, courses, and distance learning programs with interactive capabilities. The paper discusses the importance of continuous development programs which includes to update knowledge and skills in existing and new areas of practice, keep professional qualifications up-to-date, raise one’s profile through certifications and networking, making oneself more marketable to future employers and obtain new improved skills-making challenging tasks easier. The paper highlighted the problems associated with attending professional development program which includes; lack of interest, unacceptance of submitted papers and lack of awareness.