Strengthening the Role of Academic Libraries in Advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria

Abstract

Academic libraries are at the centre of the academic excellent of higher institutions providing relevant information services and resources required for teaching, learning and research functions. This paper discusses the critical role of academic libraries in supporting the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs) in Nigerian. The results demonstrate that academic libraries are key drivers of sustainable development due to their ability to provide fair access to information that facilitates education, reduction of poverty, health, and gender equality. The research notes that academic librarians have a positive overall awareness and knowledge regarding the SDGs, especially the ability to align academic library services with the goals such as quality education (SDG 4), poverty eradication (SDG 1), good health and well-being (SDG 3), and gender equality (SDG 5). Nevertheless, the results also indicate a low profile of the contribution of academic libraries in certain aspects like collaboration, social media lobbying, and direct interactions with social issues. The key challenges that have been identified are lack of funding, inadequate ICT infrastructure, institutional policies connecting libraries to the SDGs, weak university engagements, and low collaborations with national and international stakeholders. The study suggests that more funding by the government and institutions, policy changes and building capacity will help to improve the strategic functions of academic libraries that will enable the academic libraries in Nigeria to be better players in facilitating inclusive and sustainable development.