Consequences of Defective Public Relation in Nigerian Special Libraries

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume IV, Issue XI, November 2020 | ISSN 2454–6186

Consequences of Defective Public Relation in Nigerian Special Libraries

Angbande, Dennis P¹, James N. Mngutyô^2
1University Library and Information Services, Benue State University, Makurdi
²Department of Library and Information Science, Benue State University, Makurdi

Abstract: Special libraries contribute significantly to national development. Unfortunately the connection between special libraries and national development has not been fully known and established for Nigeria and her institutions to understand due to defective public relations. The resultant effect has been unpalatable on Nigerian special libraries, Nigerian institutions and ultimately on national development. To address this,  the paper examines the concepts of special libraries, national development, defective PR and went on to look at the relationship between special libraries and  national development, and further  discusses causes of defective public relation and the consequences  on Nigerian special libraries and proffer the way forward and conclude that indeed defective PR  has  given Nigerian special libraries a neglected, undervalued, underfunded  misconceived, misconstrued, misrepresented  image among other effects such as lack of attention and so on that result to poor information resources and information services. Though surmountable, the task is herculean and the way forward among other things include building image of library, possession of higher qualifications; development of research and presentation skills which must start now as Nigerian society seeks accelerated national development.

Keywords: Consequences, Defective PR, Special Libraries, National development, Nigeria

INTRODUCTION

Special libraries like other types of libraries are established to meet unique information needs of parent institutions. The libraries are attached to government institutions or agencies, organizations, corporations, associations, business organizations, individuals and so on (Shidi, Aju & Ashaver 2014). Individually and collectively, these libraries contribute significantly to national development through information provision to parent institutions. Information provided is for daily execution of parents’ institutions activities towards meeting society’s needs. Unfortunately this connection has not been clearly established for Nigerians to understand. Aguolu and Aguolu(2002) corroborating assert that the primary problem of library profession in Nigeria is being misunderstood by the members of the society. This is quite true but it is also true of members of institutions in Nigerian society.

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