Problems and Prospects of Establishing Hospital Libraries in Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to investigate the difficulties of establishing hospital libraries in Enugu State, in southeastern Nigeria. A survey study was conducted to examine hospital staff perceptions concerning the establishment of hospital libraries and their anticipated benefits. Questionnaires were distributed by the author to hospital staff, with the exception of medical students and doctors. Altogether, 147 copies of the print questionnaire were distributed and 114 (78%) completed questionnaires were collected by the author. The majority of survey respondents were in favor of establishing hospital libraries and predicted positive outcomes for both staff and patient education. Interviews were conducted with the administrators and managers at the three hospitals. They agreed that there is a need for establishment of hospital libraries but noted the lack of funds for their construction. These study findings can be used to persuade hospital administrators and senior management to give serious consideration to the development of hospital libraries, in light of their anticipated educational benefit to staff and patients.

Keywords:

• Enugu State
• health workers
• hospital library
• Nigeria

Notes

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