PERCEIVED INFLUENCE OF LIBRARY SERVICES ON SOCIAL COHESION AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT AMONG USERS OF KWARA STATE LIBRARY BOARD
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Generally, public libraries are public institutions that would be viewed or measured by their
significance and support for the larger society. Therefore, this study examined the perceived
influence of library services on social cohesion and civic engagement among users of Kwara
State Library Board, Ilorin. This study adopted descriptive survey research design. The
population of the study is 1081, and the sample size of 284 using the confidence level of 95.0%
and margin of error of 5.0%. Questionnaire was used for data collection. Descriptive statistics of
frequency count, simple percentage, mean, and standard deviation. The findings showed that
Kwara State Library Board (KSLB), Ilorin provided services such as assistance with digital
services, physical spaces, book lending service, early learning and early literacy services,
reference services, provision of audiovisual facility among others.The findings indicate that
library services provided at KSLB enhance psychological support, initiate art therapy, facilitates
discussion among the users, drive the organisation of art events, and enhance adult literacy.The
results demonstrated that the library provide platform for civic space, enhances civic literacy,
provide platform for public forum or conservation catalyst, serve as civic information center,
organise community-wide reading club, and partners in public service.The findings implied that
the there were no challenges with respect to service provision to the users. It was established that
library services provided influence social cohesion and civic engagement. It was recommended
that the management of KSLB should implement policies that formalise partnerships with
localartists, mental health professionals, and literacy organisations to provide structured
wellness programs that deepen users’ engagement.
Word count: 259 words
Keywords: Library service, social cohesion, civic engagement, KSLB, public library
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