J Communicate:

j’ Journal of Library and Information Science

ISSN: 1115-26664
T Vol 26(2) December, 2024
Journal homepage: https://www.cjolis.org/
s

The role of the libraries in bridging the digital divide: a case of

Rivers State University Central Library, Port Harcourt
Victor Wagwu PhD (CLN)
Dame Patience Goodluck Jonathan Automated Library,
Ignatius Ajuru University of Education Rumuorlumeni,
Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Victor,wagwu@iaue.edu.ng

Caroline A. Okoro PhD (CLN)

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture
Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria.
carolokoroamara@gmail.com
Abstract

The study examined the role of the libraries in bridging digital divide: a case of Rivers State
University Central Library Port-Harcourt, Rivers State. It further examined the bridging of the
digital divide gap between socio-economic and digital information resources. Three objectives
and three research questions guided the study. Descriptive research design was used for the
study with a population of 11 professional librarians working with Rivers State University
Central Library. The study sample size was the entire population using census sampling
technique method. The research instrument used for data collection was a self-structured
questionnaire. The instrument was a modified 2-point rating scale of Yes and No. The data
analysis was done usingfrequency and percentage countfor the research questions. The findings
of the study revealed among other things that librarians in Rivers State University Central
Library is making significant efforts to provide access to digital resources on socioeconomic
divide. The study concluded that libraries play an ever-more-important role in promoting
equality and closing socioeconomic divides as long as they remain vital hubs for digital
information and resources. To make sure that these organizations continue to be successful in
closing the digital divide and empowering their communities, more study and ongoing
assessment of library services are crucial. It therefore recommended among others that the
library should push for a larger budgetary allocation that is dedicated to digital resources.

Keywords: digital divide, information resources, librarians, digital citizen and digital emigrants,
etc.

Introduction
The rapid advancement of technology has transformed the way information is accessed,
processed, and disseminated, leading to a significant shift in the way societies function. But this
technological revolution has also expanded already-existing social and economic disparities by
widening the gap between those who have access to digital technology and those who do not
(Afolabi, 2017). The digital divide is the term used to describe a process where digital citizens
 knows how to technologically navigate access to information than the digital emigrants who
struggles for accessibility to information because of lack of technological skills.The digital
.citizens are those bom in the 80’s and 90’s while the emigrants are those bom in 50-70’s who
struggles to learn how the computer works because in the days of their birth, computer was not
much in the existence. It is this emigrant group that leads the Nigerian society and also creates
the socio economic disparities between them and the digital citizens because of their lack of
technological attainment. Due to their technological ineffeciencies, millions of Nigerians lack
access to computers, the internet, and other digital technologies, making the country's digital
divide a serious issue (Nwabueze, 2019). Due to lack of resources and infrastructure, this gap is
most noticeable in rural areas. Only 36% of Nigerians in rural areas have internet connectivity,
compared to 63% in metropolitan areas, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission
(2020). For a long time, libraries have been essential in fostering social justice and closing
information gaps. By offering internet connectivity, digital literacy training, and access to digital
technologies, libraries are particularly positioned to solve the digital gap in the digital age (Igwe,
2018). By doing this, libraries can enable underserved areas to fully engage in the digital
economy.

In Nigeria's past, libraries have played a significant role in advancing education and literacy. But
in order to adapt to the shifting information world, their position has changed dramatically in
recent years. Digital resources such as e-books, online databases, and digital repositories are
currently available in Nigerian libraries (Okiy, 2020). These resources could help close the
knowledge gap and democratize access to information. Despite these advancements, closing the
digital divide remains a major concern for Nigerian libraries. These difficulties include a lack of
infrastructure, limited funds, and a shortage of skilled workers (Uwaifo, 2019). Furthermore,
resolving underlying social and economic disparities is necessary to overcome the digital divide,
which is not just a technological problem. By offering specialized services and activities,
libraries can significantly contribute to reducing these disparities, according to (Adeyemi, 2019).
For example, libraries may empower entrepreneurs and small business owners by providing
training in digital literacy, online skills development, and e-commerce.
Millions of Nigerians lack access to computers, the internet, and other digital technologies,
making the country's digital divide a serious issue (Nwabueze, 2019). Only 36% of Nigerians in
rural areas have internet connectivity, compared to 63% in metropolitan areas, according to the
Nigerian Communications Commission (2020). This discrepancy limits possibilities for
underprivileged people and impedes socioeconomic development.

Nigeria's progress is significantly impacted by the digital divide. It has an impact on civic
engagement, economic empowerment, healthcare, and education. For example, entrepreneurs
and small business owners lack the internet skills necessary to grow their companies, and
students without access to digital technology find it difficult to compete with their classmates
(Igwe, 2018). Furthermore, because people without internet connection are unable to receive
telemedicine services or critical health information, the digital gap makes health inequities
worse. Libraries have traditionally been essential for fostering social justice and filling
knowledge gaps. By giving people access to digital technologies, internet connectivity, and
training in digital literacy, libraries are in a unique position to close the digital divide in the
modem day (Igwe, 2018). Libraries may enable underserved areas to fully engage in the digital
economy by doing this.

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In Nigeria's past, libraries have played a significant role in advancing education and literacy. But
in order to adapt to the shifting information world, their position has changed dramatically in
recent years. Digital resources such as e-books, online databases, and digital repositories are
currently available in Nigerian libraries (Okiy, 2020). These resources could help close the
knowledge gap and democratize access to information.

Research has shown how library initiatives can help close the digital gap. For instance, Oyedipe
(2016) discovered that digital literacy initiatives based in libraries greatly enhanced the online
proficiency of Oyo State's rural residents. According to Adewale's (2018) research, libraries in
Lagos State gave researchers and students vital access to digital resources. Libraries have a huge
potential to close the digital gap. To fully grasp the unique opportunities and constraints that
Nigerian libraries face, more research is necessary. By examining the difficulties, possibilities,
and best practices in library-based digital projects. It is relation to this that the study seeks to
examine the role that library play in bridging the digital divide in Nigeria.

Statement of the Problem

The digital divide remains a major barrier to Nigeria's social and economic growth, making
existing inequalities worse and reducing opportunities for disadvantaged communities. Despite
the critical role of libraries in bridging this divide, the Nigerian library sector faces numerous
challenges in providing digital inclusion services, hindering its potential to address this pressing
issue. The inadequate digital infrastructure in Nigerian libraries, characterized by insufficient
computers, internet connectivity, and digital resources, severely constrains their ability to
provide effective digital services. The limited digital literacy skills among library staff and users
hinder the effective utilization of available digital resources, perpetuating the digital divide.
Insufficient funding allocated to Nigerian libraries exacerbates these challenges, making it
difficult for libraries to acquire and maintain digital infrastructure, train staff, and develop
relevant digital programs. This inadequate funding is compounded by ineffective policy and
regulatory frameworks, which fail to provide adequate support for digital inclusion initiatives in
libraries.

The consequences of this situation are far-reaching. Marginalized communities in Nigeria

continue to face significant barriers to accessing information, education, healthcare, and
economic opportunities. This perpetuates poverty, limits socio-economic mobility, and hinders
national development. The digital divide also undermines Nigeria's ability to compete in the
global digital economy, stifling innovation and entrepreneurship. The Nigerian governments
efforts to promote digital inclusion and bridge the digital divide are hindered by the lack of
effective library-based digital initiatives. This underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive
study of the challenges and opportunities facing Nigerian libraries in addressing the digital
divide. This study aims to investigate the role of the Rivers State University Central Library in
bridging the digital divide gap.

Objective of the Study

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The main objective of this study is to examine the role of the Rivers State University Central
Library in bridging the digital divide gap. Specifically, the study aims to:
1. Investigate the eftorts made by Rivers State University Central Library to provide access
to digital resources for users.
2. Identify the challenges faced by Rivers State University Central Library in addressing the
digital divide.
j. Exploie strategies Rivers State University Central Library can implement to enhance its
role in reducing the digital divide.

Research Questions:

1. What efforts has Rivers State University Central Library made to provide access to
digital resources for its users?
2. What challenges does Rivers State University Central Library face in addressing the
digital divide?
3. What strategies can Rivers State University Central Library implement to enhance its role
in reducing the digital divide?

Literature Review

Digital Divide

Digital divide refers to the gap between individuals or communities who have access to
infonnation and communication technology (ICT) and those who do not. It draws attention to
differences in digital abilities and access to gadgets like computers, smartphones, and the
internet. The digital divide, which is more noticeable across urban and rural areas, wealthy and
low-income groups, and educated versus less educated people, is a significant problem in Nigeria
that affects education, employment, healthcare, and social inclusion. Nigeria's digital divide is
rooted in socioeconomic disparities. The infrastructure required to support digital technology,
such as dependable electricity, is sometimes lacking in rural areas. According to Ajiboye and
Telia (2017), the main reason for the gap is a lack of ICT infrastructure, which keeps many
Nigerians from using government services, engaging in the digital economy, or obtaining online
education. The high price of digital gadgets and internet services is another important
consideration. Low-income households cannot afford the high cost of data plans, even in urban
locations where internet connection is available.

According to Adomi (2019), a large number of Nigerians are unable to purchase laptops,
smartphones, or data plans, which restricts their access to the abundance of online information.
Digital inclusion is hampered by this, especially in a country where poverty is pervasive.
Another important component of the divide is digital literacy, or the capacity to use digital tools
efficiently. Having access to technology is vital, but so is being able to use it effectively. The
disparity is widened by the fact that many Nigerians, particularly those living in rural regions,
lack the requisite digital skills. Egbe (2022) emphasizes the importance of digital literacy,
pointing out that people cannot take full advantage of the ICT infrastructure that is accessible to
them without these abilities. This restricts their capacity to participate in the digital economy,
access infonnation, and study online.

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 igcnan society as been significantly impacted by the digital divide. It has exacerbated
sc 100 Man* rural students were unable to engage in online learning during the
°ut redk because they lacked access to digital devices and the internet. According to
weg u an Uwaifo (2019), the move to digital platforms disproportionately impacted kids from
low-income families, hence exacerbating educational disparities. The problem is exacerbated by
the fact that teachers frequently lack training in the use of digital tools. Disparities in
professional growth and employment possibilities are brought about by the digital divide in the
labor market. Those without access or expertise are left behind as companies use digital
technologies more and more. According to John and et al (2020), people with digital literacy
have an casiei time finding employment, while others without these abilities are shut out of
numerous chances, which explains socioeconomic disparities already in place.

Role of Libraries in Bridging the Digital Divide

By giving people access to information and communication technologies (ICT) and resources
that aid in the development of critical digital skills, libraries play a critical role in closing the
digital gap. Libraries play a vital role in ensuring that underprivileged populations in Nigeria,
where socioeconomic disparities fuel the digital divide, have access to digital resources and can
make use of the opportunities presented by the digital era. Providing free or inexpensive
computer and internet access is one important method libraries can close this gap. Libraries are
crucial for public access because many Nigerians cannot afford these technologies. According to
Nwabueze (2019), libraries in both urban and rural areas facilitate ICT use, which is crucial for
job seekers, students, and those who use online government services. Libraries not only facilitate
access but also promote digital literacy. This is important since simply having access to
technology is insufficient without the requisite abilities. Libraries provide workshops and
training courses to help patrons learn how to efficiently navigate and use digital tools. According
to Egbe (2021), these literacy initiatives help close the gap by enabling people to engage in the
digital economy.

Libraries serve as information and learning centers for the community, making them accessible
to rural or low-income communities. They offer a variety of resources, such as online databases
and e-books, which are crucial for users who might not have access at home. Libraries contribute
to the fight against information inequality by making digital content more accessible. By giving
students access to the digital resources they need for their studies, libraries help promote
education. Accessing online learning tools is extremely difficult for many students from
underprivileged homes, particularly in times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic. By enabling
students to use computers and the internet for their academic work, libraries helped to lessen this
problem, according to Uwaifo and Nwegbu (2019).

Libraries provides all kind of information resources to cater for all fields of endeavor to have
access to their information needs both for businesses and job seekers thereby bridging the gap in
the labor market. To succeed in the modem digital economy, one must have access to online job
boards, networking platforms, and e-resources for skill development. According to Omekwu
(2020), libraries promote economic growth by providing the tools required for job seekers to
succeed. Libraries' capacity to completely solve the digital divide is hampered by issues

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inclu ing insufficient financing and poor infrastructure. In addition to struggling to maintain
modem digital equipment and operating on tight budgets, many libraries also frequently face
challenges including unstable electricity and inadequate internet connectivity. To effectively
serve their communities, libraries must invest in ICT capabilities, according to Egbe (2021).
More government funding and support for libraries are crucial to overcoming these obstacles.
The government may contribute to expanding digital access for all residents by enhancing the
resources and infrastructure that libraries have access to. In underprivileged communities,
partnerships among libraries, non-governmental organizations, and the commercial sector can
also aid in increasing access to ICT and training in digital literacy.

Methodology

Descriptive research design was used for this study with a population of 11 librarians
working in the Rivers State University Central Library. The library is located in the university's
main campus in Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The sample size was the
entire population as sampling technique used was census. The research instrument used for
data collection was a self-structure questionnaire. The instrument was a questionnaire with a
modified 2-point rating scale of Yes and No. The data analysis was done using frequency and
percentage count for the research questions.

Result and Findings

Research question l:What efforts Rivers State University Central Library made to provide
access to digital resources for its users?
Table 1: Frequency and percentage rating on the efforts Rivers State University Central
Library has made to provide access to digital resources for its users______________
Efforts Rivers State University Central Library
S/N has made to provide access to digital resources for
its users N=ll YES % NO %
E-books are available for access at Rivers State 8 72.7 3 27.3
1
University Central Library.
The library provides access to online journals and 7 63.6 4 36.4
2
databases.
The library has invested in improving its internet 6 56.4 5 43.6
3 connectivity to facilitate access to digital
resources
Workshops or seminars are held to promote 9 81.8 2 18.2
H-
digital literacy among users.
8 72.7 3 27.3
5 The library collaborates with other institutions to
enhance its digital resource offerings.
Total Percentage Rating_________________ ____ 7 63.4 4 36.6

Table 1 presents the frequency and percentage rating of the efforts made by Rivers State
University Central Library to provide access to digital resources for its users, showing an overa
percentage rating of 7(65.2%) for "yes" and 4(50.9%) for "no." The overall findings suggest that

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a ma;°rity °f resPon<ients believe that Rivers State University Central
Library is making
significant efforts to provide access to digital resources.

Research question 2: What challenges Rivers State University Centra, Library face in
addressing the digital divide? J

Table 2: Frequency and percentage rating on the challenges Rivers State University
Central Library face in addressing the digital divide.
S/N Challenges Rivers State University Central
Library face in addressing the digital divide N=ll YES % NO %
1 The library faces budget constraints that limit its 5 45.5 6 54.5
ability to enhance digital resources.
0 Inadequate infrastructure affects the library's 9 81.8 2 18.2
ability to provide reliable internet access.
The library lacks sufficient training programs for 7 63.6 4 36.4
3 staff to effectively assist users with digital
resources
4 Users encounter difficulties in accessing digital 9 81.8 2 18.2
resources due to limited digital literacy skills.
6 54.5 5 45.5
5 The library experiences technical issues that
disrupt access to digital resources.
Total Percentage Rating 8 72.7 3 27.3

Table 2 outlines the frequency and percentage ratings regarding the challenges faced by Rivers
State University Central Library in addressing the digital divide, revealing an overall percentage
rating of 8(65.4%) for "yes" and 3(34.5%) for "no.". Overall, the majority of respondents agree
that the library faces significant challenges in addressing the digital divide, suggesting a need for
Strategic improvements in these areas to enhance access to digital resources effectively.
Research question 3: What strategies can Rivers State University Central Library implement to
enhance its role in reducing the digital divide?

Table 3: Frequency and percentage rating on the strategies Rivers State University Central
Library can implement to enhance its role in reducing the digital divide________________ _
Strategies Rivers State University Central Library
S/N can implement to enhance its role in reducing the
digital divide N=ll YES % NO %
The library should increase its budget allocation 4 36.4 7 63.6
1
for digital resources.
Expanding internet access within the library is 7 63.6 4 36.4
2 essential for improving digital resource
availability
Offering regular training programs on digital 6 54.5 5 45.5
3 literacy for users is crucial.

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 1 he library should mvest^T^fri^^j^
4 7 63.6
devices for user access. 4 36.4
The library should enhance its website to provide
5 9 81.8 2 18.2
easier access to digital resources.

Total Percentage Rating

6 59.9 5 40.1
University Central UbraX Percentage ratings of the strategies that Rivers State
U y Central Library can implement to enhance its role in reducing the digital divide, with
an overa percentage rating of 6(59.9%) for "yes" and 4(40.0%) for "no.". Overall, the results
indicate that while there is considerable support for strategies like expanding internet access,
inves ing in digital devices, and enhancing the library's website, there is less consensus on
increasing tie u get for digital resources and the need for regular training programs. These
findings highlight areas where the library can focus its efforts to effectively reduce the digital
divide and improve access to digital resources for its users.

Discussion of Findings

Table 1 presents the frequency and percentage rating of the efforts made by Rivers State
University Central Library to provide access to digital resources for its users, showing an overall
percentage rating of 7(65.2%) for "yes" and 4(50.9%) for "no." The overall findings suggest that
a majority of respondents believe that Rivers State University Central Library is making
significant efforts to provide access to digital resources. These results are consistent with those
of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) (IFLA, 2018),
which highlights how libraries greatly improve resource access and user satisfaction by offering
digital materials and internet connectivity. According to the survey, libraries that provide internet
access and provide instruction in digital literacy have a beneficial influence on patrons' capacity
to make efficient use of digital resources.

Table 2 outlines the frequency and percentage ratings regarding the challenges faced by Rivers
State University Central Library in addressing the digital divide, revealing an overall percentage
rating of 8(65.4%) for "yes" and 3(34.5%) for "no.". Overall, the majority of respondents agree
that the library faces significant challenges in addressing the digital divide, suggesting a need for
strategic improvements in these areas to enhance access to digital resources effectively. The
outcome is consistent with research by Nwabueze (2019), which found that poor infrastructure
and low user digital literacy are major obstacles to efficient library services in Nigeria.

Table 3 presents the frequency and percentage ratings of the strategies that Rivers State
University Central Library can implement to enhance its role in reducing the digital divide, with
an overall percentage rating of 6(59.9%) for "yes" and 4(40.0%) for "no." Overall, the results
indicate that while there is considerable support for strategies like expanding internet access,
investing in digital devices, and enhancing the library's website, there are fewer consensuses on
increasing the budget for digital resources and the need for regular training programs. These
findings highlight areas where the library can focus its efforts to effectively reduce the digital
divide and improve access to digital resources for its users. The results are consistent with those

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of Adeyomi (2019), who highlighted the value of user-centered digital literacy training as a key
tactic foi libraries looking to successfully close the digital gap.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrated how important it is for Rivers State University Central
Library to help close the digital gap by making digital materials accessible. The findings show
the library's dedication to boosting internet connectivity, developing digital literacy, and working
with other organizations. To maximize these efforts, however, issues including financial
limitations, poor infrastructure, and the requirement for further staff training must be resolved.

Even though most respondents supported the library's efforts, it is imperative that the
organization continuously modify its tactics to satisfy the changing demands of its patrons. In
order to strengthen the library's role in closing the digital gap, it is imperative that focused
training programs be put into place, budgetary allocations be increased, and digital resource
offerings be improved. The study's ramifications go beyond the Rivers State University Central
Library, emphasizing the more general difficulties that libraries in Nigeria and other comparable
situations face. Libraries will play an ever-more-important role in promoting equality and closing
socioeconomic divides as long as they remain vital hubs for digital information and resources.
To make sure that these organizations continue to be successful in closing the digital divide and
empowering their communities, more study and ongoing assessment of library services are
crucial.

Recommendations

1. The library should push for a larger budgetary allocation that is dedicated to digital
resources. More e-books, online journals, and other digital resources can be purchased
with this financing, expanding the library's collection and improving user access to
information.
2. Enhancing the library's internet connectivity is crucial to guaranteeing uninterrupted
access to digital resources.
3. The library should give its users the skills they need to successfully explore and use
digital resources, regular training programs centered on digital literacy should be
implemented.

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