By Olayinka Adeniran
The Nigerian Library Association (NLA) held Annual National Conference/AGM at the International Events and Cultural Centre (The Dome) in Akure, Ondo State from 2nd-6th July, 2023.
The event witnessed important dignitaries from all works of life and particularly the members of the association.
While declaring the event open, Ondo state Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, said the association has done very well in touching the life of the populace.
It should be noted at this juncture that Library provides access to information which is essential for sustainable social economic development and also help people to make informed decisions.
The 64th annual conference entitled ‘Promoting Library Collaboration in a Changing World’ is an opportunity for libraries across the country to exchange ideas, open up new opportunities for members and take advantage of the globalization and collaboration.
The President and Chairman of the Council, Nigerian Library Association, Dominic Omokaro noted that libraries contribute immensely not only to educational growth but also to national development and therefore seek for collaboration with government at all levels to support the development of library services.
About eight hundred delegates drawn across the country participated in the conference and the Annual General Meeting to contribute their experience for the benefits of a shared objective that they have for the benefit of their project and their mission .
Some of the dignitaries at the laudable event are Chairman, Nigerian Library Association, Ondo State, Dr Idiegbeyan-Ose Jerome, Secretary, Nigerian Library Association, Dr Ogochukwu Emiri, and other top librarians.
Many issues affecting the association were discussed and solutions were proffered.
Similarly, awards were presented to some members of the association amongst them is Dr Fatimah Jibril Abduldayan. She was conferred the Prof M.I. Ajibero’s Best PhD Thesis Award.
Dr Fatimah Jibril Abduldayan is from the Department of Library and Information Technology, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State.
Dr Fatimah Abduldayan’s thesis had previously won the Prof Abdullahi Bala’s Thesis Award in FUT Minna during the University’s convocation in 2022.
The award further buttress the importance of girl-child education for national development.
In conclusion however, objectives of the Association includes, uniting persons interested in libraries, librarianship and information services and also to safeguard and promote the professional interest of libraries nationally and international.
