Evaluation of Public Library Services towards the Education of People with Special Needs in Anambra and Imo States, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the library services provided to people with special needs in Anambra and Imo States public libraries. The study adopted survey research design. The population of the study was 98 professional and para-professional staff of the public libraries studied. The entire population was involved in the study. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Frequencies and percentages were used to analyse objectives one, two and six while research questions three-five were analysed with mean and standard deviation. Findings of the study revealed that: the people with special needs that make use of the public libraries are: the physically challenged, visually impaired, and the hearing impaired; the resources provided are mainly for those with visual impairment; generally, the services are  provided at a low level; there is also low level of outreach initiatives by public libraries for the education of people with special needs; most assistive technologies are not provided to a high level in the libraries studied among others. Based on the findings, the researchers recommend that: the public library should collaborate with stakeholders such as: local disability organizations, support groups, and advocacy agencies for awareness in their various groups and advocacy to ensure that effective services are provided for the education of people with special needs, and there should be adequate provision of assistive technologies to people with special needs among others.