By Mokobia Rita.
ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has commenced plans to modernise public libraries across the state as part of efforts to expand access to knowledge, strengthen digital literacy and reposition the facilities as centres for research, innovation and lifelong learning.
The initiative was unveiled by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, during an inspection of the Delta State Library headquarters and the branch library along the Grand Hotel axis in Asaba.
The visit marked the commencement of a statewide assessment of public library facilities aimed at evaluating existing infrastructure, identifying operational challenges and developing a roadmap for their revitalisation.
Prof. Tonukari said the state government was determined to transform public libraries from conventional book repositories into modern knowledge hubs equipped with digital resources, improved internet connectivity and technology-driven learning tools.
He noted that the changing global knowledge economy requires libraries to evolve in order to meet the needs of students, researchers, entrepreneurs and other users.
“The world is changing rapidly, and libraries must change with it. Our goal is to ensure that public libraries in Delta State become modern knowledge hubs where people can access information, conduct research, develop digital skills and expand their intellectual horizons,” the commissioner said.
At the headquarters of the state’s e-library, the commissioner was received by the Director of the Delta State Library Board, Mrs. Ediri Irikefe, and the Director of Information and Communication Technology, Mr. Remy Edozie, who briefed him on the facility’s operations, achievements and challenges.
The library management acknowledged the state government’s support, particularly the recent provision of laptop computers, which they said had improved operational efficiency. They, however, appealed for further intervention in areas such as internet connectivity, digital infrastructure and equipment upgrades.
Responding, Prof. Tonukari encouraged the Library Board to establish partnerships with private organisations, corporate bodies, philanthropists and development agencies to attract book donations, expand learning resources and improve service delivery.
He also directed that government publications, official gazettes and historical records relating to Delta State be properly preserved, digitised and archived to safeguard the state’s documentary heritage and make them readily accessible for research and public reference.
The commissioner assured staff that the government would continue investing in improved internet services, digital access and infrastructure upgrades to enhance the functionality of public libraries across the state.
During a visit to the branch library in Asaba, he acknowledged the challenges posed by ageing facilities and obsolete equipment, assuring staff that the ongoing reform would provide modern infrastructure capable of supporting contemporary learning and research.
He said the initiative would not only improve library facilities but also promote knowledge acquisition, innovation and digital inclusion across the state.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher Education, Mrs. Felicia Rone-Orugboh, urged library personnel to demonstrate greater professionalism, commitment and initiative in carrying out their responsibilities.
She encouraged staff to adopt a proactive approach to addressing operational challenges instead of waiting solely for government directives before taking action.
Other members of the inspection team included the Director of Remedial Services, Mrs. Stella Maidoh, and other senior officials of the ministry.
