Challenges Facing Rural Community Libraries in Kwara State

This study investigated the challenges confronting rural community libraries in selected local government areas of Kwara State, North Central Nigeria. Community libraries in rural settings serve as vital points of information access for populations with limited connectivity and formal education opportunities. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were gathered from library officers, community leaders, and library users in eight rural library centres using questionnaires, observation, and focused interviews. Findings identified poor physical infrastructure, irregular electricity supply, low community awareness of library services, inadequate staffing, and the absence of relevant local language materials as the most significant challenges. User visits were low, and most community members were unaware of the services available. The study recommended that the Kwara State Library Board develop a strategic rural library improvement plan that addresses infrastructure, staffing, community outreach, and the provision of materials in Yoruba and Nupe languages to reflect local linguistic diversity. Keywords: community libraries, rural library services, Kwara State, information access, North Central Nigeria.