Public Library and Information Services: Dilemma for Riverine Communities in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

The riverine communities in Delta state have been object of neglect and will continue if nothing is done by the governments and other stake holders to address their information needs through public library and information services. The need for a new structure that is directed towards the reduction of illiteracy by providing library and information services cannot be overemphasized. Information deprivation is biting hard on our riverine dwellers; this will continue to promote illiteracy, poverty, ignorance and poor living conditions. These categories of people need to be equipped to enable them make decisions that would impinge upon their day to day living and existence. The efficacy of information as a powerful tool of development has and will continue to lead many countries to commit much of their wealth to the establishment of public libraries and information services in both riverine/rural and urban cities. It is therefore suggested that Delta State and Nigeria in general should as a matter of policy come out with an equitable means of sharing infrastructural facilities between the riverine/rural and urban settlements.