EDT 212 NOTE: INTRODUCTION TO LIBRARY STUDIES

WEEK 1: OVERVIEW OF LIBRARIES

What is a library? The term "library" encompasses various definitions and meanings.
Traditionally, a library is commonly perceived as a building that houses books and serves as a
safeguard against theft, insects, rodents, water, and fire. However, the concept of a library extends
beyond its physical structure.

To delve deeper into the meaning of a library, it is important to explore its etymology. The term
originates from the Latin word "liber," which means books. Based on this origin, early professionals
in Library and Information Science defined a library as a place where significant records of human
ideas are organized, processed, and disseminated to users for the purpose of preservation and
posterity, protecting them from both human and non-human damage.

In addition to this definition, there are other perspectives on what a library entails. Olanipekun and
Ifabiyi (2003) considered a library as a collection of information materials, such as books, films,
magazines, maps, manuscripts, phonographs, and records, that are gathered and made available for
use. It is an organization staffed by trained individuals who carefully select and organize various
materials, including books and periodicals, to meet the informational and educational needs of
users.

This definition highlights several important aspects:

The presence of librarians who play a vital role in the selection, processing, and management of
library collections.

A library is not simply a space where books are randomly placed on tables and shelves, but rather,
the materials are organized in a manner that facilitates easy access for users.

The organization and classification of library materials are crucial for efficient use and retrieval.

To fulfill its purpose as a disseminator of knowledge, a library assumes significant responsibilities,

including:
Serving as a resource and information center.

Acting as a repository of information.

Housing various collections.

A library is essentially a collection of materials that are organized for use. Consequently, it must
fulfill various functions, such as acquisition (selecting and acquiring materials), preservation
(ensuring proper maintenance and processing of items), organization (retrieval of materials using
relevant loan systems and classification schemes), and dissemination of information (informing
users about the resources available and their potential uses).

Libraries are often referred to as "storehouses" of knowledge. The quality of library services is
often seen as an indicator of a country's economic development, as libraries reflect the information
needs of the population and the country's ability to meet those needs. Some of the fundamental
needs fulfilled by libraries include preserving government and other records, supporting education
at all levels, facilitating religious and general instruction, catering to the information needs of
individuals for self-improvement, fulfilling intellectual and aesthetic needs, and providing
information for development purposes.

WEEK 2: BRIEF HISTORY OF LIBRARY

The concept of a library encompasses various aspects and historical developments. In its earliest
form, libraries consisted mainly of unpublished records, resembling archives rather than modern
libraries. Archaeological findings from ancient Sumerian city-states revealed temple rooms filled
with clay tablets containing commercial transactions and inventories, with only a few documents
touching on theological matters or historical records. This pattern continued in the government and
temple records of Ancient Egypt, written on papyrus scrolls or stored in the famous Library of
Alexandria.
Private or personal libraries, consisting of non-fiction and fiction books, emerged in classical Greece
around the 5th century BC. Notable book collectors of Hellenistic Antiquity included Polycrates of
Samos, Pisistratus, Euclides, and the kings of Pergamum. These Greek libraries were separate from
the state or institutional records kept in archives.

In Rome, large public libraries were established under different emperors, often found in
conjunction with Roman baths. These libraries provided direct access to scrolls and were typically
bilingual, featuring both Latin and Greek texts.

Chinese libraries during this period remain largely unknown, except for the imperial library
established in the Han Dynasty. The library catalog was written on silk scrolls and stored in silk
bags. Early library classification systems can also be observed in Nippur (1900 B.C.) and Nineveh
(700 B.C.). In Persia, Zoroastrian elites and Persian kings established libraries, with the Library of
Gundishapur being a significant public library that played a part in a scientific complex. The Roman
Empire saw the establishment of public libraries under different emperors, each attempting to
surpass the achievements of their predecessors.

During the Middle Ages, library design reflected the value placed on manuscripts, which were often
chained to lecterns or stored in wooden chests or shelves. The security-focused architecture of
libraries was influenced by the need to protect valuable possessions. Islamic libraries flourished for
a period, with "halls of Science" or dar al-'ilm established in many cities. These libraries employed
translators and copyists to render works into Arabic, including Persian, Greek, and Roman texts.
However, the Islamic world eventually turned against experimentation and learning, leading to the
destruction of many libraries.

Christian monks in Muslim/Christian border areas preserved Islamic library contents, which
eventually made their way into other parts of Christian Europe. These copies, along with works
preserved directly by Christian monks from Greek and Roman originals, formed the basis of
modern libraries. Medieval library architecture evolved to accommodate growing collections, with
lecterns and chained books giving way to book-presses, stacks, and the introduction of electrical
lighting.

Today, national libraries supported by governments, such as the U.S. Library of Congress, Canada's
Library and Archives Canada, and the British Library, play significant roles in preserving and
providing access to knowledge. Libraries generally organize their materials according to a
classification system, enabling efficient browsing and retrieval. Some libraries have additional
reference stacks, while others require patrons to submit requests for retrieval from closed stacks.

LIBRARIES DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

The development of libraries in Nigeria traces its roots back to the 19th century when European
colonial powers established the foundation of modern libraries. These early libraries served
specific purposes and were primarily created to support the activities of government departments
and research institutes.

Among the notable examples of these early libraries were the law library, established in 1900 to
preserve legal documents, and the Lagos Medical Research Institute Library, established in 1909 to
facilitate research on tropical diseases. These libraries played vital roles in their respective fields
and laid the groundwork for the growth of libraries in Nigeria.

Today, Nigeria boasts a diverse range of library types, catering to various needs and educational
institutions. These include special libraries, school libraries, research libraries, polytechnic
libraries, college of education libraries, and university libraries. Libraries can be found in every
corner of the country, serving local communities and providing access to knowledge and
information.

The development of libraries in Nigeria reflects the importance placed on education, research, and
the dissemination of knowledge. As the country continues to progress, libraries play a crucial role
in supporting learning, fostering intellectual growth, and contributing to the overall development of
individuals and society.

WEEK 3-4: Contributions of Individuals, Professional Bodies, International, Governmental

and Non-Governmental Organizations to the Growth of Libraries in Nigeria

The growth and development of libraries in Nigeria have been facilitated by various individuals,
professional bodies, international organizations, governmental entities, and non-governmental
organizations. Their contributions have played a significant role in the establishment, expansion,
and improvement of library services across the country.

One notable contribution comes from the colonialists and the home government. During the era of
colonization, the colonial masters established special libraries to support government departments
and research institutes in Nigeria. For example, the law library, established in 1900, was dedicated
to preserving legal documents, while the Lagos Medical Research Institute Library, established in
1909, facilitated research on tropical diseases. These libraries laid the foundation for the
development of libraries in Nigeria.

Foreign and indigenous individuals have also made significant contributions to the spread of
libraries in Nigeria. One such individual is Henry Carr, who established the largest personal library
in Nigeria. Later, this library became part of the University College Library in Ibadan in 1948.
Additionally, the writings of Herbert Macaulay, known as the father of Nigerian nationalism, formed
part of the collection at the University College Library. Another notable figure is William John
Harris from New Zealand, who served as the first librarian at the University of Ibadan when
academic activities commenced in 1948. He also founded the first library school in Nigeria, which is
now known as the Department of Library, Archival and Information Studies at the University of
Ibadan.

National and international corporate organizations have also made significant contributions to the
growth and development of libraries in Nigeria. Examples include the Carnegie Corporation,
UNESCO, and the Ford Foundation, among others. These organizations have played prominent roles
in supporting and promoting libraries in Nigeria, contributing to their rise and development.

The Carnegie Corporation, for instance, has been actively involved in philanthropic endeavors
globally, with a particular focus on creating libraries. Beginning in 1886, Andrew Carnegie and later
the Carnegie Corporation invested substantial funds to establish public libraries in the United
States and around the world. In Nigeria, the Corporation provided support for the development of
free library services, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Their contributions have had a lasting
impact on library services in the region.

Furthermore, the Carnegie Corporation has initiated programs aimed at strengthening the library
profession, enhancing central services, and supporting the revitalization of universities and
libraries in Africa. Their recent efforts have focused on developing national libraries, revitalizing
selected public libraries, and consolidating the development of university libraries in strategic
intervention programs.

These contributions, along with others from various individuals and organizations, have played a
crucial role in the growth and advancement of libraries in Nigeria. Libraries serve as vital centers of
knowledge, education, and community development, and the support of these individuals,
professional bodies, international organizations, governmental entities, and non-governmental
organizations has been instrumental in creating a robust library network throughout the country.
WEEK 5-6: Types and Functions of Library

As there are different types of library users, so also there are different types of library to
serve the diverse users.

Types of library include:

Academic Library
School Library
Public Library
Research Library
Special Library

Academic Library

An academic library is the one found in tertiary institutions of learning: the university, polytechnic,
college of education, college of agriculture, etc.

Academic libraries usually acquire materials and design services to meet the curriculum of their
respective parent institutions.

Academic libraries differ from one institution to the other in terms of users, materials and sundry
considerations.

However, all academic libraries irrespective of their type of institution perform similar functions.

Functions of Academic Libraries

1. Select and acquires books and materials through purchases, gifts, exchanges, and legal deposits.

2. Prepares material for the use of students, lecturers, faculties, and others who require them e.g.
cataloguing, classification, filling, stamping, pasting and lettering, etc.

3. Makes the materials easily accessible physically through the provision of catalogues, indexes,
bibliographies lists, etc.

4. Allow materials from the general collection and the reserve collections to circulate among the
users.

5. It offers reference services to the users.

6. It conducts user education and orientation activities for its users.

School Library

This is the library in the primary, secondary and equivalent school environment.

The school library usually stocks collection of books and other materials (e.g. globe, wall, charts,
maps, atlases, and organizes them in a spacious rooms for the use of both teachers and students.

The school library provides relevant materials to enable students and pupils improve on their
academic standard.

It makes material available to compliment the teaching activities of teachers and also to enhance
the achievement of the general goals and objectives of the school.

Put in place activities and resources capable of developing and sustaining the habit and enjoyment
of reading and learning independently in the students/pupils.

Public Library

A public library is library that is established by govt to serve every category of people in the
society.

It can be established by the federal govt (e.g. the national library of Nigeria), the state govt (e.g.
Kwara State library) or local govt.

The library established by the federal govt is usually cited in the federal capital and in the state
capitals.

The state and local govt own libraries are located at the state headquarters and local govt
headquarters respectively.

Functions

The library stocks books and other resources on diverse human knowledge for the use of members
of the community where the library is located.

The library often has a section meant for the children and another part for the adult users.

Public utilities such as conference facilities restaurant, cafe, viewing rooms and media section can
be found in large public library.

Part of the function of the public library is to promote mobile library services for the people in the
rural communities using mobile vehicles to move library material to the people.

Preserves cultural monument and artifact, stocking people’s indigenous literature and audio-visual
material
Research Library

This is a type library that is found in the research institutes such as ARMTI, FIIRO Lagos, IITA
Ibadan and MILLS Ilorin, etc.

A research library is usually set up by the parent institute. It acquires the resources that are meant
to reflect the peculiar program of the institute. The primary users of such a library are patron of
such institute.

Researchers who have particular interest in the subject field covered by program of the institute
can also use the research library.

The library renders selective dissemination of information services to its users.

It prepares readers profile and listing of specific subject that are of interest to the users as new
material comes into the library.

Special Library

This kind of library can be found in the school for the physically challenged organizations,, govt
agencies and individuals.

It can be set up by business professionals and religious organizations, with the purpose of serving
the company or groups that established it.

The library keeps books in specialized disciplines.

The library keeps extensive file of unpublished research report, journals, manuscripts, newspapers,
and govt or cooperate reports.

Special libraries have staff with specialized training to be able to serve specialized body of Users.
National Libraries

The main aim of a country’s national library is to preserve and safeguard the national culture and
heritage and fulfill the informational needs of its society. National libraries perform the following
functions:
• serve as a cultural storehouse by acquiring, preserving and organizing the literature produced by
or about a nation in any form (i.e. books, filmstrips, tapes, videocassettes, paintings, etc).

• accept legal deposits

• prepare and publish the national bibliography
• publish essential catalogues and indexes (including a national union catalogue, or a list
showing the location of materials housed in all other libraries in the country)
• acquire selected foreign literature of special interest to the nation’s citizens
• collect oral history, folklore, etc.
• establish and maintain branch libraries and bookmobile or ‘boat mobile’ services to these
branches, as necessary
• provide interlibrary loans and international exchange services
• provide exhibitions and display collections to cater to the information, social and cultural
needs throughout the country
• provide materials and facilities for the blind, physically challenged and other interest
groups.

WEEK 7-8: Library Resources

Library Resources

Library resources, also known as the library stock, are materials that contain information and are
acquired, described, classified, organized, preserved, and made available for dissemination to users.

Library materials can be categorized into print and non-print formats. Print materials include
monographs, which are books, pamphlets, or printed sheets published once and remain unchanged
unless edited for a new version, as well as thesis and dissertations, which may remain unpublished.

Non-book materials, also known as audio-visual items, exist in various forms. These materials
enhance the learning experience and include visual and audio resources.

Types of Library Materials:

Materials in Print:
Monographs: Books providing detailed knowledge on a single subject.
Non-fiction Books: Complement classroom learning and serve as reading materials.
Fiction: Creative works of imagination that explore social aspects of human life, such as novels,
short stories, and essays.
Reference Books: Contain factual information on a wide range of topics, not meant to be read cover
to cover. Examples include encyclopedias, dictionaries, biographies, manuals, yearbooks, atlases,
gazetteers, indexes, and abstracts.
Serials: Publications issued in successive parts, including periodicals (journals and newspapers)
and non-periodicals (conference proceedings and monograph series).
Ephemeral: Materials of historical, sociological, or cultural importance, such as brochures and event
programs.
Government Publications: Documents that provide information on development and civic
responsibilities, divided into legislative, judicial, and executive publications.
Rare Books: Out-of-print books that are difficult to obtain.

Non-print Materials:
Audio-Visual Materials: Graphic materials like charts, radiographs, photographs, slides, filmstrips,
posters, and real objects like models, games, Braille, cassettes, globes, and cartographic materials.

Microforms: Media that complement printed words, including films, filmstrips, microfilms, tapes,
records, transparencies, and pictures.
Computer Files: Encoded data and programs stored in carriers for direct or remote access.
Graphics: Materials that convey information and ideas through drawings, words, symbols, and
pictures, such as graphs, charts, diagrams, and sketches.
Others: Films, overhead transparencies, television and video-tape recordings, audio recordings,
realia (real objects), cartographic materials, toys and games, film cards, flannel graphs, artifacts, etc.

These diverse library resources provide users with a wealth of information, cater to different
learning styles, and support research, learning, and leisure activities.

Week 9:

Types of information Resources

Information can be broadly categorized into three main types: primary, secondary, and tertiary
information. Each type serves a different purpose and has its own characteristics.

Primary Information Resources:

Primary information refers to original material that has not been interpreted, analyzed, or
condensed. It is the raw data or firsthand accounts of events or research. Examples of primary
information resources include technical reports, dissertations, theses, statistics, research articles,
blogs, and websites. These sources provide direct access to original information without any
intermediary interpretation.

Secondary Information Resources:

Secondary information is created from primary material. It involves the modification,
interpretation, condensation, and rearrangement of primary information to satisfy the information
needs of users. Secondary information resources include textbooks, reviews, abstracts, indexes,
bibliographies, and literature reviews. These sources provide summaries, analyses, and
interpretations of primary information, making it more accessible and understandable for users.

Tertiary Information Resources:

Tertiary information resources are produced after the filtration and synthesis of primary and
secondary information. They act as tools to understand and locate information effectively.
Examples of tertiary information resources include databases, subject gateways, dictionaries,
encyclopedias, yearbooks, handbooks, fact books, almanacs, and specialized reference sources.
These sources provide comprehensive and organized information, offering background knowledge,
definitions, overviews, and summaries of various subjects.

Value and Importance of Information:

The concept of information is multi-dimensional and varies depending on context and perspective.
It is derived from the Latin word "informare," meaning "to give form to." Information can be seen as
news, facts, data, recorded knowledge, or a communication process.

Information holds value and importance in various ways:

Communication: Information is a means of conveying and exchanging knowledge and ideas among
individuals and groups.

Decision-making: Accurate and reliable information supports informed decision-making processes

in personal, professional, and organizational contexts.

Research: Information serves as the foundation for research, enabling the exploration, analysis, and
discovery of new knowledge.

Learning: Access to relevant and quality information facilitates learning, education, and intellectual
growth.

Problem-solving: Information provides insights and solutions to problems by offering different

perspectives and options
.
Innovation: Timely and relevant information fuels innovation and creativity by providing
inspiration and new ideas.

Empowerment: Access to information empowers individuals and communities by enabling them to

make informed choices, participate in society, and exercise their rights.

Understanding the different types of information resources and their value helps individuals
navigate the vast information landscape and make effective use of available resources to meet their
information needs.

Data Information Knowledge Wisdom

Using information is considered very important. However, information that is collected and stored,
but not used has no value since no decisions will be based upon it. It therefore should never have
been collected in the first place.
The Value and Importance of Information

Information is considered valuable when it is collected, stored, and effectively used. If information
is not utilized to inform decisions or actions, it loses its value and should not have been collected in
the first place. Understanding the value of information is crucial, as it influences decision-making
processes and the success of individuals, organizations, and companies. The following points
highlight the significance of information:

Usefulness: Information has value when it serves a purpose. It should be collected with a specific
use in mind, such as improving services, making informed decisions, or providing insights for
various endeavors. Potential usefulness and intended applications are factors that determine the
value of information.

Decision Making: Information plays a pivotal role in decision making. Accurate and up-to-date
information enables individuals, organizations, and companies to make informed choices, leading to
more effective decision-making processes. Good quality information is essential for success in any
domain.

Resource Optimization: Limited resources require efficient utilization. Availability of relevant

information allows individuals, organizations, and companies to use their resources effectively. By
accessing and utilizing pertinent information, they can optimize their operations, enhance
productivity, and achieve better outcomes.

Progress Monitoring: Information enables individuals, organizations, and companies to monitor

their progress and performance. It provides insights into the effectiveness of strategies, initiatives,
and actions. Regularly monitoring progress using reliable information allows for timely
adjustments and improvements.

Problem Solving: Valuable information contributes to problem-solving processes. It helps identify

gaps, issues, and challenges, leading to the development of effective solutions. By utilizing
information to address problems, individuals, organizations, and companies can overcome
obstacles and achieve their goals.

Asset Value: Information is an asset for individuals and organizations that possess it. It can be
leveraged to create value, whether through selling the information itself or using it to gain a
competitive advantage. The possession of accurate and relevant information can significantly
impact the success and effectiveness of an individual, organization, or company.

In conclusion, information holds value and importance when it is effectively used to inform
decisions, optimize resources, monitor progress, solve problems, and serve as an asset. Recognizing
the significance of information empowers individuals, organizations, and companies to collect,
analyze, and utilize information in a way that maximizes its value and benefits.