Libraries Remain the Bedrock of Learning and National Growth — UI Deputy Vice-Chancellor

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter Olapegba, has reaffirmed that libraries remain the foundation of learning, research, and national development.

He made the statement while receiving a delegation from the Librarians Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN) and the University Librarian on a courtesy visit on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor. The visit preceded the Council’s Capacity Building Workshop being hosted by the University.

Professor Olapegba described libraries as central to the pursuit of knowledge and institutional excellence, noting that any society that neglects its library system ultimately weakens its educational and developmental progress. He lamented the decline of public libraries and reading culture across the country, stressing that it has severely limited access to information vital for national growth.

He further highlighted the University of Ibadan’s commitment to establishing a smart library as part of efforts to enhance the reading culture among staff and students, urging the LRCN to expand similar initiatives nationwide.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor commended the Librarians Registration Council of Nigeria for organizing its workshop at the University of Ibadan, noting that the theme, “Augmented and Virtual Reality: Application in Library Operations,” aligns perfectly with the institution’s vision to integrate technology into teaching, learning, and research.

Speaking during the visit, the Registrar of the Librarians Registration Council of Nigeria, Amb. Jaafaru A. Wase, explained that the Council is responsible for setting standards and regulating library practice in Nigeria. He stated that the three-day workshop is designed to strengthen the professional competence of librarians and encourage the adoption of digital tools in library operations.

Amb. Wase expressed appreciation to the University of Ibadan for its support, including the provision of the venue, accommodation, and logistics for the event, describing the institution as a model of effective library management and academic excellence.