Improving public library services for rural community development

Abstract

The public library is an institution of inestimable value supported by public fund for the benefit of the society. The use of public libraries is not restricted to any class of persons in the community but it is freely available to all. This article reviews the purpose and role of public libraries in any community. The problems bedeviling public libraries in rural areas were highlighted. The paper canvasses the use of information communication technology to improve public library services in the rural areas. Recommendations were put forward for the overall transformation of public library services culminating in the socio-political development of rural communities.