Research article · 2026
AVAILABILITY AND UTILIZATION OF INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE IN PUBLIC LIBRARIES IN SOUTH EAST NIGERIA
Abstract
Purpose: The main objective of this study is to examine the availability and utilization of indigenous knowledge in public libraries in South East, Nigeria. Specifically, it seeks to identify the types of available indigenous knowledge, ascertain the acquisition methods, determine the extent of utilization, and highlight the operational challenges hindering effective use.
Design/Methodology/Approach: A descriptive survey research design was adopted for this study. The population comprised 420 library staff and registered active adult users across five states in South East Nigeria. A sample size of 290 respondents (140 library staff and 150 registered adult users) was selected using multi-stage, purposive, census, and convenience sampling techniques. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled “Availability and Utilization of Indigenous Knowledge Questionnaire” (AUIKQ) and analyzed using mean and standard deviation statistics.
Findings: The study revealed that public libraries possess a notable quantity of physical indigenous knowledge resources, predominantly local history, oral literature, and agricultural practices. Libraries acquire these resources largely through community donations, direct field transcriptions, and collaborative documentations. The extent of utilization is high for reference consultations, cultural exhibitions, and educational resources. However, the utilization of indigenous knowledge faces significant operational challenges, including inadequate funding for field recording, poor ICT infrastructure, material decay, and the reluctance of cultural custodians to disclose sacred knowledge.
Implication: To prevent the extinction of indigenous knowledge and transition of libraries into dynamic community knowledge hubs, state library boards must formulate comprehensive collection policies and strictly enforce legal deposit regulations. Furthermore, targeted budgetary allocations are required to equip libraries with modern ICT tools and digital repositories to prevent physical material decay.
Originality/Value: The paper addresses the empirical gap regarding the current state of indigenous knowledge in public libraries in South East Nigeria, recommending actionable interventions such as capacity-building workshops in oral history documentation to transform these libraries into comprehensive digital repositories for regional cultural heritage.
Keywords: Indigenous Knowledge, Public Libraries, Information Utilization, Cultural Heritage Preservation, South East Nigeria
Paper type: Empirical research
Keywords
Indigenous Knowledge, Public Libraries, Information Utilization, Cultural Heritage Preservation, South East Nigeria Paper type: Empirical research
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