EVALUATING THE EXTENT OF DESTRUCTION TO LIBRARY INFRASTRUCTURES AND COLLECTIONS IN CONFLICT AFFECTED AREAS OF NORTH EAST NIGERIA

Abstract

This study assesses the impact of conflict on library infrastructure, collections, and infrastructure in North East Nigeria. The objectives of the study were formulated in line with the specific research question to include: To what extent of physical damage to library buildings in conflict-affected Areas, To What extent of window and door damage in conflict-affected library Buildings, to What extent have loss of library collections in conflict-affected library Buildings, to What extent have electrical and plumbing damage in conflict-affected library Buildings, What strategies and policies can be recommended for restoring libraries in conflict-Affected library Buildings of North-East, State Nigeria? A descriptive survey research design was used for the study. The entire population of the study was 28 librarians in conflict-affected library Buildings. The responses were used to answer the research questions. The instrument was structured on 5-point scale. The instruments were face validated by three experts, two experts from department of Library and Information Science and one from Measurement and Evaluation Unit, Department of Science Education, Federal University, Gashua. The findings reveal severe damage to library infrastructure, substantial loss of library collections, and damage to equipment and technology. The study highlights the importance of rebuilding and revitalizing libraries in conflict-affected areas to promote knowledge preservation, cultural heritage, and community engagement. Recommendations are made for rebuilding and rehabilitating library infrastructure, replacing lost collections, providing equipment and technology, building capacity for library staff, promoting community engagement, and developing policy and advocacy. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on the impact of conflict on libraries and library services.