Role of Public Libraries in Promoting Civic Education in Ondo State

This study investigated the role of public libraries in promoting civic education among residents of Ondo State, South West Nigeria. Public libraries are constitutionally recognised as centres for lifelong learning and are well positioned to disseminate civic information on voter rights, constitutional provisions, governmental processes, and civic responsibilities. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were obtained from librarians and library users in seven public library branches across four local government areas in Ondo State using structured questionnaires and interviews. Findings revealed that civic education activities in the surveyed libraries were minimal and largely reactive rather than programmatic. Most libraries stocked some civic education pamphlets but did not organise structured civic literacy events or partner with electoral bodies. Library users expressed interest in receiving civic information from the library but indicated limited awareness of the library as a civic resource. The study recommended that the Ondo State Library Board develop a civic education programme, partner with the Independent National Electoral Commission, and train librarians as civic literacy facilitators. Keywords: public library, civic education, Ondo State, voter education, information access.