ROLE OF SCHOOL LIBRARIES AND CHILDREN EDUCATION IN SELETED SCHOOLS IN YEWA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT, OGUN STATE.

Abstract This study looked at how school libraries help pupils learn in selected schools in Ogun State's Yewa South Local Government Area. The study specifically sought to determine the availability of professional staff in school libraries, identify the resources provided, assess the purposes for which students and teachers use these resources, evaluate the extent of their utilization, identify the barriers to effective library use, and propose strategies for improvement. A descriptive survey approach was used, with data collected from 181 respondents representing teachers and library staff from four selected schools. To obtain useful insights, the data were examined using frequency counts and percentages. The findings revealed that the majority of the schools had qualified people, with over 63% of respondents holding HND/B.Sc./B.Ed. qualifications, 12.7% holding master's degrees, and 60.2% having 7 to 10 years of working experience. However, important hurdles to effective library service delivery include limited financing, a lack of current and appropriate reading materials, poor ICT capabilities, insufficient space, and the recruitment of unqualified staff. Despite these problems, respondents strongly agreed that school libraries improve students' academic achievement by offering access to a variety of learning resources, inspiring students to learn, and supporting curriculum delivery. The study indicates that school libraries are critical to academic performance, but they require modernization and increased institutional support. To promote the best possible use of library services, it suggests more funding, the development of ICT infrastructure, the supply of modern educational materials, teacher and librarian training, and awareness-raising initiatives. Keywords: Nigerian Academic Achievement, School Libraries, Information Sharing, Education, and ICT