Roles of Public Library Information Services in Promoting Entrepreneurship, Fostering Innovation, Enhancing Capacity Building and Advancing Global Sustainability in Northwest Nigeria

Abstract

Public libraries have progressively evolved from simple repositories of books into dynamic institutions that promote entrepreneurship, innovation, capacity building, and sustainable development. In Northwest Nigeria, where socio-economic issues such as unemployment, poverty, low literacy rates, and limited access to technology persist, public libraries are strategically positioned to close gaps and drive progress. This study explores the role of public library information services in supporting entrepreneurship, fostering
innovation, strengthening capacity building, and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the region. Guided by four research questions, a descriptive survey design was employed, with data analysed using mean scores, correlations, and regression analyses. Results indicate that public libraries play a significant role in entrepreneurship and innovation, mainly by providing access to business information and ICT tools, although their involvement in specialised entrepreneurial training remains limited. Digital literacy efforts are notably robust within capacity-building initiatives. Libraries’ contributions to the SDGs are most apparent in education and employment-related goals, while their influence on environmental awareness is comparatively modest. Key challenges identified include insufficient funding, poor ICT infrastructure, and limited policy support. Correlation and regression analyses suggest that entrepreneurship, innovation, and capacity building are strong predictors of libraries’ contributions to the SDGs, with capacity building emerging as the most influential factor. The study concludes that public libraries in Northwest Nigeria are essential agents of socio-economic change but require greater institutional backing. It recommends increased funding, enhanced ICT integration, stronger
policy recognition, and strategic partnerships to optimise their impact on entrepreneurship, innovation,
and sustainable developmen