Access and use of public libraries by disabled persons in Nigeria

Abstract

This study surveyed the access and us e of public libraries by disabled persons in Nigeria. The role of public libraries in providing services to all irrespective of disability has been a daunting task for public libraries as a result of government`s negligence. The methodology adopted for the study is the survey design in which questionnaire was use for obtaining data. The target population was public library staff in some selected states in Niger Delta region of Nigeria. However, public li braries in Bayelsa, Delta, Edo and River States were used for the study. The sample size of the study was 86 librarians drawn from study population of 126. Data were analysed using descriptive statistic. Among the finding s were, that library building were not design to take care of people with special needs, coupled with the poor state of public library services in general. The need for public libraries to embrace the use of ICTs was recommended. Government should ensure that public library policy statements are translated into reality through proper funding.

Key Words: Access, use, public, library, Disabled, Persons, Nigeria.