Reinventing the Role of Academic Libraries in Nigeria to be Active Contributors to Student Wellness in the COVID – 19 Pandemic

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume V, Issue IV, April 2021 | ISSN 2454–6186

Reinventing the Role of Academic Libraries in Nigeria to be Active Contributors to Student Wellness in the COVID – 19Pandemic

Awala-Ale, Isabella Idoefemu
Library Department, College of Education Warri, Delta State, Nigeria.

Abstract
Presently, there is a trend particularly in western nations where higher education institutions are focused on supporting student wellness as an aspect relevant to the overall academic performance of its students. This trend is justified due to studies that highlight a correlation between student wellbeing (especially mental health) and the academic success of students. Interestingly, this trend contrasts with the situation in Nigeria. Nigerian academic libraries are yet to adopt policies wherein the library plays a crucial role in promoting student wellbeing. This article explores this problem and seeks to suggest methods adoptable by the Nigerian academic libraries in order to promote student wellness during and after the COVID-19Pandemic.

Keywords: Students, Wellbeing, Nigerian, Academic libraries, COVID-19 pandemic, On-line education

1.Introduction

Presently, there is a trend particularly in western nations where higher educational institutions are focused on supporting student wellness as an aspect relevant to the overall academic performance of its students. This trend is justified due to studies which highlight a correlation between student wellbeing (especially mental health) and the academic success of students (Kirsti, Erik and Ottar, 2019). Interestingly, this trend contrasts with the situation in Nigeria (Aisha and Abdulrazaq, 2018); (Ebenezer and Kurokeyi, 2018). Reflective of this lack of focus on the wellbeing of students as an antecedent to student academic progress is the significant paucity of academic materials addressing the role Nigerian HEIs can play in promoting student wellbeing.
Although Nigerian HEIs have failed to take initiative and address the situation of student wellness (Adeyemi and Adeyemi, 2014); this does not represent an end to options. Academic libraries in Nigeria can take the initiative and provide innovative attempts at supporting student wellness. The position of the Nigerian academic library as the repository of academic information within HEIs should not limit its potential. Indeed

Read More