PROMOTING INCLUSIVE ACADEMIC LIBRARIES: ACCESSIBILITY AND USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES AND SERVICES BY PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines the accessibility and utilization of information resources and library services by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in federal university libraries in South-East Nigeria. The study used a descriptive survey design, with census sampling of 132 PWDs (119 visually impaired, 10 locomotor-impaired, 3 hearing-impaired) at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, and collected data through validated observation checklists and structured questionnaires. Findings reveal critically deficient resource accessibility (UNN 44%, NAU 24%) and service accessibility (UNN 55%, NAU 18%), with visual impairment accommodations the most inadequate. Utilization mirrored these gaps: 73-76% of resources and services were rarely used, and none reached moderate or frequent use. Accessibility correlated significantly with utilization (r = 0.68-0.71, p < .001), though even accessible provisions achieved only occasional use. The study offers baseline empirical evidence to inform accessibility policy, assistive technology investment, infrastructure planning, and staff training in Nigerian academic libraries.