Use of library statistics to support library and advisory services and bibliographic control at the national library of Nigeria

Abstract

Statistical information is a vital tool for management and development of organizations. Keeping statistics of activities is basic to the survival and progress of a library and enables the library to measure its performance periodically. The National Library of Nigeria (NLN) places high premium on the library statistics that it compiles yearly as the basis of its research and development in support of its statutory responsibilities and functions as the Nigeria’s apex library, bibliographic control agency with advisory role on library matters in the country. This paper sheds light on the extent to which the compilation and use of statistics has contributed to the efforts of the NLN in promoting library development for sustainable progress in Nigeria. It also highlights constraints being encountered by the apex library and proffers solutions.

Keywords: Statistics, Library development, Library management, Library planning, National libraries