The Director of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Distance Learning Centre, Professor Muhammad Bashir Muazu, has called for the tran...
He made the call while delivering a presentation on the future of libraries and their relevance to national development in contemporary Nigeria, during the 5th international Conference of Kashim Ibrahim Library held at ABU Samaru Campus Zaria.
Professor Muazu explained that libraries must move beyond the traditional roles of collecting, preserving and providing access to information to becoming centres where information is transformed into knowledge, understanding and practical solutions for national development.
He noted that with the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence, many conventional library services could now be performed by AI systems, making it necessary for libraries to rethink their operations and services.
The Director stressed that modern libraries must guarantee access to credible information, protect users' privacy and ensure the integrity of data collected and disseminated.
He also emphasised the need to make library services inclusive by providing access to people with special needs, underserved communities and those who do not speak English.
Professor Muazu identified inadequate electricity, poor internet connectivity and infrastructure challenges as some of the realities that must be considered when developing intelligent library systems in Nigeria.
He called for collaboration among government, university authorities, library professionals and communities, stressing that the transformation cannot be achieved by librarians alone.
The university don further advocated continuous training and reskilling of library personnel to equip them with the knowledge required to guide users in identifying credible information sources and selecting appropriate AI tools.
He warned that libraries risk losing their relevance if they fail to adapt to changing information needs, as people increasingly rely on mobile phones and AI platforms to access information.
Professor Muazu also highlighted the importance of documenting indigenous knowledge preserved within communities, warning that valuable cultural information could disappear with its custodians if not properly documented and integrated into modern knowledge systems.
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