Crusaderhotnews
By Omoruyi Patricia Osayomore
No State or Country can prosper intellectually without its academic and research resources as contained in library systems. The library is a setting where intellectual materials can be accessed by readers, students and researchers of all age brackets. It is a sine qua non for the progress of any nation. As education is the bedrock for societal advancement, so is library the bedrock for educational advancement.
There are basically two types of library system: the physical and digital. The physical library is a collection of learning materials displayed on book shelves for readers’ usage in a physical environment, while the digital library is where information and learning resources are accessed online in line with the established protocols for such usage in a State or Country.
In Edo State, Governor Godwin Obaseki has ensured that the library system remains functional, regardless of the recent relocation of the physical library at Sapele Road to a temporary site at the State Secretariat, while its permanent site is still undergoing construction in line with 21st century standards. The State Government is working assiduously to establish a digital library in order to encourage learning among students and youths who are in the digital age.
The Edo State Library in Benin City, which is temporarily situated at the Rotunda Building within the State secretariat Complex, is a site to behold due to its tastefully rebranded setting. There is constant electric power supply as well as serene ambience as a result of several air conditioners which enable library users to optimally concentrate on their activities. Book shelves are arranged in the appropriate spaces to aid knowledge and innovation in the State.
The environmental setting of the library corroborates the position of the Functioning Director, Edo State Library Board, Mr. Irene Evans, during an interview with him. Mr. Irene said “the temporary site of the State Library is environmentally friendly and conducive. Students and other users regularly consult the library for one resource material or the other. And they are always comfortable during the hour(s) spent studying here due to the friendly and enabling environment.”
The human potential and capacity building tools are among resources in place to drive the overall reformation of the State library system and by extension, the transformation of Edo State through acquired knowledge. This is particularly strategic in this new age where intellectually sound youths with requisite qualifications are needed to sustain a progressive and egalitarian economy.
Mr. Irene appreciated the Edo State Government for its significant efforts in consolidating on the development of the human potentials in the State and in ensuring that all Edo children and youths are given the impactful education that will sustain them throughout their lifetime.
He added that the State Government led by Governor Obaseki has indeed given priority attention to the library system, hence a series of stakeholders meetings have been held to improve the library system. Such stakeholders engagements have led to the support the State has been receiving over the years from Book Aid International with learning materials. He added that the Book Aid International recently partnered with the State Government to give out 50 cartons of books, made up of about 70 adult and children books in each carton to the Edo State library.
Considering the current functionality and active state of the library, rebuilding of its permanent site is very desirable, as it will fast track the process of placing Edo State on the speed lane of intellectual development. There is no doubt that residents in the State have been receiving quality education as a result of the various education reforms in the State. The numerous volumes of academic works which the Library is housing will sustain the world class status of education in the State and make Edo a role model to other states and Countries.
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