Development and Challenges in Library & Information Science Profession in the 21st Century Nigeria

Abstract

This paper argues that library profession in Nigeria has witnessed remarkable developments in this 21st Century, which include increase in the number of library schools; designing and modifying of library schools’ curriculum to meet employers’ demand in labour market; availability of job opportunities for LIS graduates/professionals beside the four (4) walls of libraries; registration and license of qualified professional librarians as well as effective and efficient provision of library and information services using ICTs. It points out that despite these developments, the Library profession in the 21st century in Nigeria is faced with challenges; which include divergent curriculum among library schools; obstacles to the effective provision of library services, challenges in the labour market as they affect LIS graduates; inadequate teaching staff in library schools; delay in the current registration and licensing of professionals, non-registration of B.A./B.Sc Library Science holders by LRCN and digital divide among Nigerian Libraries. It is recommended that the new “reviewed LIS curriculum in Nigeria” be adopted by all Nigerian library schools; LIS professionals be attracted to teach in library schools; through good pay package to reduce brain-drain syndrome. Others include registration of professionals by LRCN should be a continuous exercise; while adequate ICTs especially computers be made available in library schools’ computer laboratories in order to cater for adequate acquisition of IT skills by students.