Investigating the Role of Libraries in Urbanization and Environmental Awareness among Undergraduate Students in Selected University Libraries in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the role of libraries in urbanization and environmental awareness among undergraduate students in selected university libraries in Ogun State, Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire distributed to undergraduate students across the selected universities. The sample comprised three hundred and sixty-four (364) registered library users in the selected universities. A self-structured questionnaire was the main instrument used to gather data for the study and the data gathered was subjected to descriptive statistics (frequency, count, mean and standard deviation). Findings revealed that the extent to which libraries contribute to raising environmental awareness among youths in urban areas of Nigeria was high. The effectiveness of library programs and resources in educating youths about urbanization and its environmental impacts was low. The major types of information and educational materials that are available in Nigerian libraries to promote environmental awareness among youths are collection of textbooks, educational pamphlets and brochures, online resources or databases, and materials related to renewable energy sources and technologies. The major challenges libraries face while engaging youths on urbanization and environmental sustainability are shortage of trained staff, limited awareness of the programs and resources, struggle to complete with social media and digital platforms preferred by youths, and lack of sufficient funding to organize programs focused on urbanization and environmental sustainability. It was recommended that university libraries adopt innovative strategies to enhance students’ access to environmental information and strengthen their role in fostering awareness of urbanization challenges and sustainability practices.