The availability and utilization of school library resources in some selected Secondary Schools (High School) in Rivers State

Abstract

This study investigates the availability and utilization of school library resources by Secondary School (High School) Students. Eight Selected Secondary Schools in Rivers State, Nigeria were chosen based on their performance in external examinations and geographic locations. In carrying out the research, questionnaires were administered to both teachers and students of the schools. Findings revealed that school library services were either lacking or not in place in most Secondary Schools. Consequently, it was discovered that none of the secondary school met the prescribed standard for established school libraries at the secondary levels. Also in cases where spaces were provided for library, the materials in the libraries were not only scanty but poorly organized for effective library and information service delivery. It is suggested that library and school authorities should make adequate provision for school library services in Secondary Schools for improvement in the standard. Equally important is the fact that the recommended National Educational Policy on the need for secondary school libraries be made mandatory for all Secondary Schools. This has become necessary as a result of the importance of school library especially development of e-library in the life of the modern child and its immense role towards realizing the educational and millennium goals. Key words: Availability and utilization, school library resources, secondary schools (high school)