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Introduction
A public library serves as a gateway to knowledge and provides the foundation for lifelong learning, independent decision-making, and cultural development for individuals and social groups. Public libraries are often regarded as crucial institutions for fostering an educated and literate population. They enlighten and sustain the educational status of individuals by acquiring, organizing, and storing recorded knowledge to enrich personal lives. Oyeniran (2023) notes that public libraries support lifelong learning and the development of cultural awareness while contributing to the realization of national development objectives.
The establishment of public libraries is rooted in the need to provide resources and services that address the public’s educational, research, recreational, cultural, political, and informational needs (Mohammed, 2019). These libraries, funded and maintained by governments, aim to deliver information services equitably to all members of society, regardless of educational background, age, gender, language, religion, or nationality (Rajendran and Ladan, 2020). Public libraries are characterized by their accessibility, free services, and commitment to serving the informational needs of their communities. They facilitate informal education, encourage positive use of leisure time, and promote recreational and cultural engagement, thereby enhancing the well-being of individuals and their communities.
Public libraries play a multifaceted role by catering to the intellectual, cultural, occupational, and religious information needs of diverse populations. They provide materials on a wide range of subjects to meet varying levels of demand, including specialized reference, research, and continuing education resources. Additionally, public libraries sponsor cultural and recreational events, organize educational programs, and promote lifelong learning among children, youths, and adults. Through these efforts, they encourage personal growth, creativity, and relaxation while supporting societal progress (Okafor, 2020). The importance of public libraries is underscored by their role in enhancing the productivity of individuals and organizations. Libraries achieve this through educational, informational, economic, and cultural functions that contribute to social development. Salubi and Majavu (2024) observe that library resources encompass a wide array of materials, including traditional print media like books and periodicals, as well as audiovisual and electronic resources such as CDs, e-books, online databases, and internet-based materials. Effective library services rely on the availability and accessibility of these resources, which are critical to meeting the diverse needs of users.
For rural dwellers, the need for relevant, efficient, and up-to-date information is...