REPOSITIONING STATE BRANCHES OF THE NATIONAL LIBRARY OF NIGERIA FOR IMPROVED SERVICES

Abstract

State Branches are branches of the National Library of Nigeria established in various states of the Federation. Their establishment was informed by the need to extend library and information services to all parts of the country in line with the National Library of Nigeria Decree No. 29 of 1970, which establishes the institution as national depository and bibliographic agency. State branches render services directly to the public and liaise with publishers, other libraries and institutions. They provide insight into the operations of the institution.

 There is therefore, the need to pay great attention to the development of the branches in order to boost their operations and thus enhance the public image of the institution. The whole institution and the state branches, in particular, are faced with problems, which need to be addressed squarely: This will reposition them for a more effective and efficient service delivery in their areas of operations.

This paper therefore examines the functions of, and problems confronting the branches. It also proffers solutions as a way forward.