Prospects and challenges of establishing community libraries in Adavi and Okehi local government areas of Kogi state

                @article{CRSIJ26000380,
                  author = {Adeku Musili (CLN)},
                  title = {Prospects and challenges of establishing community libraries in Adavi and Okehi local government areas of Kogi state},
                  journal = {Cosmo Research and Science International Journal},
                  year = {2026},
                  volume = {2},
                  number = {2},
                  pages = {232-241},
                  issn = {3108-1584},
                  url = {https://cosmorsij.com/published/CRSIJ26000380.pdf},
                  abstract = {This study examined the prospects and challenges of establishing community libraries in Adavi and Okehi Local Government Areas of Kogi State, Nigeria. The study was motivated by the persistent absence of functional community libraries in the two local government areas and the resulting difficulty residents face in obtaining reliable, affordable and locally relevant information. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and focused on residents, educators, community leaders and information professionals. A proposed sample of 1,500 respondents was selected through stratified random sampling to provide representation across major community groups. A structured questionnaire and interview schedule were proposed for data collection, while frequency counts, percentages and thematic analysis were specified for data analysis. The model findings presented in this article indicate very strong perceived prospects for community libraries, particularly for access to agricultural information, health information, political and civic information, education, employment and digital literacy. The model results also show that inadequate finance, weak political will, unreliable electricity, infrastructure deficits and shortage of professional staff constitute major barriers to establishment and sustainability. Respondents are further modelled as showing substantial willingness to support community library initiatives through participation, advocacy, volunteering and modest local contributions, although they expect government and institutional stakeholders to provide the core funding and infrastructure. The article concludes that community libraries could become important grassroots information and learning centres in Adavi and Okehi if supported by clear government commitment, sustainable financing, professional staffing, community participation and partnerships with NGOs and educational institutions.},
                  keywords = {community libraries; information access; Adavi; Okehi; Kogi State; political will; agricultural information; health information; community development},
                  month = {September}
        }