The Nasarawa State branch of the National Library of Nigeria has raised concerns over the lack of electricity at its Lafia facility for more than 14 years.
The Head of the branch, Angela Anya, disclosed this during an interview in Lafia on Wednesday, saying the prolonged power outage had significantly affected the library’s operations and ability to provide services to the public.
Anya said a reliable electricity supply was essential for academic research, learning and the digital preservation of historical records. She noted that the absence of power had severely hampered the facility’s daily activities.
She also identified poor internet connectivity and inadequate bookshelves for storing publications as other major challenges facing the library.
Anya appealed to the Nasarawa State Government, corporate organisations and well-meaning individuals to support the institution in addressing its infrastructural challenges and enable it to effectively fulfil its statutory responsibilities.
She described the National Library as an important repository of Nigeria’s historical and cultural heritage and encouraged scholars, researchers and innovators to take advantage of the resources available at the facility.
The library chief also reminded authors and researchers of their legal obligation to deposit copies of their publications and research findings with the National Library for permanent preservation and inclusion in the national bibliography.
She further called on private companies and philanthropists to complement government efforts by supporting the development of modern library infrastructure equipped with digital databases, research facilities and digitised archives.
Addressing publishers, Anya urged them to comply with regulatory requirements by obtaining the necessary International Standard Book Number (ISBN) before producing or distributing educational and cultural materials.
She warned that publishing or circulating materials without the required ISBN is an offence punishable under relevant laws.
