IS PROFESSIONALISM IN LIBRARIANSHIP ERODING IN NIGERIA? WHO CAN WE FAULT?

In a world increasingly driven by knowledge and information, a robust knowledge infrastructure is vital for the progress and development of any nation. Nigeria, as a rapidly growing economy and a cultural hub in Africa, recognizes the importance of fostering a thriving knowledge ecosystem. At the heart of this endeavor lies the National Library of Nigeria (NLN), which plays a crucial role in strengthening the country's knowledge infrastructure through the publication of the National Bibliography of Nigeria. It is important to explore the mandate and significance of the NLN in fulfilling its role as the custodian of Nigeria's intellectual output and how the National Bibliography serves as a key pillar in enhancing research, education, and cultural preservation.

A National Bibliography is a systematic record of all published and unpublished works produced within a country's borders. It serves as a centralized hub that compiles, organizes, and preserves a wide range of literary and intellectual outputs, including books, academic papers, theses, dissertations, journals, reports, audio-visual materials, and digital content. The National Bibliography of Nigeria aims to provide an authoritative and comprehensive database of all works published in the country or by Nigerian authors, making it easily accessible to researchers, scholars, policymakers, educators, and the general public either physically in any of our offices or online via this link https://nigeriareposit.nln.gov.ng/home

The primary roles of a National Bibliography of Nigeria in in Strengthening Nigeria's Knowledge Infrastructure includes:

1. Preserving Nigeria's Intellectual Heritage

2. Providing Access to Information and Knowledge

3. Fostering Research and Development

4. Supporting Educational Initiatives

5. Promoting Cultural Diversity and Indigenous Knowledge

6. Enhancing Interdisciplinary Collaboration

7. Supporting Evidence-Based Decision Making

The National Library of Nigeria, in fulfilling its mandate of publishing the National Bibliography of Nigeria, plays a pivotal role in strengthening the country's knowledge infrastructure. As the custodian of Nigeria's intellectual output, the NLN preserves the nation's cultural heritage and makes it accessible to researchers, educators, policymakers, and the public. By fostering research and development, supporting educational initiatives, and promoting cultural diversity, the National Bibliography of Nigeria acts as a key resource in driving Nigeria's progress and development. As Nigeria continues its journey towards becoming a knowledge-driven society, the NLN's commitment to its mandate becomes increasingly essential for the nation's future growth and prosperity.

Azeez, Elijah Olawale

Virtual Library Services Department

National Library of Nigeria

elijah.azeez@nln.gov.ng