Introduction to the Nigerian Library Association’s Call to Action
The Nigerian Library Association (NLA) has called on librarians across the country to embrace innovation and reposition themselves for relevance in an era defined by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and rapid technological change. This call was made by the Immediate Past President of the association, Dr. Dominic Omokaro, at the 2025 Annual Dinner and Award Night of the NLA, which had the theme "The Library, the Librarian and Society in the Age of Innovation: The Challenge of Relevance".
The Need for Innovation and Adaptation
Omokaro stressed that while digital transformation is reshaping knowledge management and access, librarians must not lose sight of the profession’s enduring values of service, integrity, and knowledge preservation. He emphasized the need for librarians to adapt to innovations while holding firmly to the essence of their calling, stating, "We live in a time defined by Artificial Intelligence and technological change. For librarians to remain relevant, we must adapt to these innovations while holding firmly to the essence of our calling".
The Role of Libraries in National Progress
The Chief Executive of Havilah Group, Mr. Lanre Adesuyi, described libraries as indispensable pillars of national progress and called for the completion of the long-abandoned National Library of Nigeria headquarters in Abuja. He noted that in today’s world, where information is the new currency of progress, the role of libraries and librarians has evolved beyond traditional boundaries. Adesuyi further described the library as "a living hub of knowledge, ideas, innovation, and societal transformation" and the librarian as "a navigator, guide, and innovator helping society make sense of overwhelming information".
Challenges Facing Nigerian Libraries
In her keynote address, Prof. Roseline Echezona discussed numerous challenges facing Nigerian libraries, including limitations in physical infrastructure, reimagining the library in the digital age, a significant digital divide, and the lack of programs promoting a vibrant reading culture. She called for "adequate investment in infrastructure and supportive policy to bridge the digital divide".
The Urgent Need to Complete the National Library’s Headquarters
Adesuyi appealed to the Federal Government, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, to prioritize the completion of the National Library’s headquarters without further delay. He questioned how the country could truly speak of innovation, global competitiveness, and national pride when its own National Library stands unfinished. The project, originally envisioned as a national symbol of intellectual pride, has instead become a metaphor for neglect.
Conclusion
The Nigerian Library Association’s call to action emphasizes the need for librarians to innovate and adapt to the changing times while holding on to the profession’s core values. The completion of the National Library’s headquarters is also crucial for promoting a vibrant reading culture and bridging the digital divide. By investing in infrastructure and supportive policies, the country can unlock the full potential of its libraries and librarians, ultimately driving national progress and competitiveness.
FAQs
- What is the theme of the 2025 Annual Dinner and Award Night of the NLA?
- The theme is "The Library, the Librarian and Society in the Age of Innovation: The Challenge of Relevance".
- What is the main challenge facing librarians in the era of Artificial Intelligence and technological change?
- The main challenge is to adapt to innovations while holding firmly to the essence of their calling.
- What is the current status of the National Library of Nigeria headquarters in Abuja?
- The project has remained uncompleted for more than two decades.
- What is the role of libraries in national progress, according to Mr. Lanre Adesuyi?
- Libraries are indispensable pillars of national progress.
- What are some of the challenges facing Nigerian libraries, according to Prof. Roseline Echezona?
- Limitations in physical infrastructure, reimagining the library in the digital age, a significant digital divide, and the lack of programs promoting a vibrant reading culture.
