Integrating indigenous knowledge systems into academic library services in Nigeria
Keywords:
Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Academic, Library Services, Librarians, LibrarianshipAbstract
Integrating indigenous knowledge systems into academic library services is crucial in the lives of communities and should be made accessible to enhance the inclusivity of public libraries in Nigeria. Three objectives and research questions were formulated to guide the study. The population of the study consisted of 400 respondents drawn across academic libraries in cross river state. The purposive sampling technique was used and 350 respondents were used as sample for the study. Questionnaires were the instrument used to collect data for the study. Data were analyzed using frequency counts and mean scores through statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS, 25). Findings revealed Academic libraries play a transformative role in the preservation, promotion, and dissemination of Indigenous Knowledge (IK), especially in the context of today’s knowledge driven and digitally connected world. Traditionally designed to serve the needs of academia, government, and industry, academic libraries have evolved into critical platforms for cultural preservation and inclusive knowledge sharing. Librarians, as information custodians, must develop competencies in digitization, metadata management, web content creation, and digital preservation to bridge the gap between indigenous and scientific knowledge systems.Downloads
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