portal: Libraries and the Academy

abstract:

Patronage of public libraries in Nigeria has declined over the years and is in urgent need of revitalization. Outreach efforts would revitalize the interest of university students in the patronage of public libraries in Nigeria because they need access to resources, especially when on holidays. The study investigates the outreach programs used to revitalize the patronage of public libraries in Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was utilized in the study. The population comprised a sample of 3,457 Adeleke University undergraduates. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the data. The findings revealed that public libraries in Nigeria are underutilized by Adeleke University undergraduate students. This low patronage may be ascribed to poor outreach efforts, outdated technology, distance, inadequate facilities, and a poor road network. Outreach programs such as developing and producing library mobile applications, providing free internet access, virtual reality availability, hosting health talks, free streaming services, and making kinetic bikes available to charge phones can be effective in revitalizing public library patronage. As a result, the study suggests that outreach efforts be included in public library initiatives to engage younger users. This includes updating the public library's aging technology, notably by incorporating mobile applications into its operations.