OPEN ACCESS LITERATURE: PANACEA FOR DWINDLING LIBRARY INFORMATION RESOURCES IN PUBLIC LIBRARIES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Nigerian public libraries are facing various challenges that hinder effective and smooth operations, such as under funding and scarcity of current and relevant information resources.. The influx of open information resources offers opportunities for Nigerian public libraries to leverage with. This paper explores the potential of Open Access (OA) literature as a solution to the persistent challenge of inadequate information resources in Nigerian public libraries. The paper highlights the various advantages of OA, including cost savings, enhanced access to diverse and current information, support for education and research, promotion of local scholarship, technological advancements, and community empowerment. By examining strategies for effectively leveraging OA resources, the paper underscores how OA can serve as a panacea for bridging the information gap in Nigerian public libraries. Current and relevant references provide a comprehensive overview of the benefits and implementation of OA literature in the context of Nigerian public libraries. Finally, a conceptual model was proposed on how public libraries can effectively integrate OA.