The Role of Librarians in Promoting Information Literacy Among Secondary School Students in Lagos State

Chapter One

1.1 Background of the Study

Information plays an important role in education. Students need information to complete assignments, prepare for examinations and understand new ideas. Because information exists in many formats, students must learn how to locate, evaluate and use it in a responsible way. These abilities form the core of information literacy. When students develop information literacy skills, they perform better in school and gain confidence in their learning process (Bruce, 2019).

Librarians help students develop these skills. They guide learners through the process of finding information. They also introduce them to library tools, reference materials and online resources. In addition, librarians teach students how to select reliable information and avoid misleading sources. As a result, librarians play an important role in building strong academic foundations (Afolabi, 2020).

In Lagos State, secondary schools continue to grow in number. However, many schools still lack functional libraries and trained librarians. Because of these gaps, students often search for information on their own. They may depend on social media or unreliable websites. Therefore, they struggle with poor research habits and limited information skills. This situation makes the role of librarians even more important, especially in a state with a large student population.

Librarians can support teachers by providing structured information literacy lessons. They can also work with students during reading periods, school projects and group activities. Because of these possibilities, it is important to examine how librarians promote information literacy in secondary schools in Lagos State.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Many secondary school students in Lagos State find it difficult to search for information in an effective way. They often use random online sources without checking accuracy. This behaviour affects their academic performance. Although librarians can play a strong role in improving these skills, not all schools have trained librarians. Even in schools where librarians exist, the level of support varies.

Some librarians lack modern training in information literacy. Others face challenges such as limited time, poor facilities or lack of cooperation from teachers. Because of these issues, students may not receive enough guidance. Therefore, it is important to study the actual role librarians play in promoting information literacy and the challenges they face in secondary schools in Lagos State.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to examine the role of librarians in promoting information literacy among secondary school students in Lagos State.

The specific objectives are to

1. identify the information literacy activities provided by librarians

2. assess the level of students’ information literacy skills

3. examine how librarians support students during research and learning tasks

4. identify the challenges librarians face when promoting information literacy

1.4 Research Questions

The study seeks to answer the following questions

1. What information literacy activities do librarians provide in secondary schools

2. What is the level of students’ information literacy skills

3. How do librarians support students during research and learning tasks

4. What challenges do librarians face when promoting information literacy

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study will help school administrators understand the importance of librarians in improving students’ information skills. It will also help policymakers design better library programmes for secondary schools in Lagos State. Librarians will benefit because the findings will highlight areas that require training and improvement.

Students will also gain from the study. Better information literacy programmes will help them use information more responsibly. They will complete school projects with better accuracy. Teachers will also use the findings to collaborate more effectively with librarians.

1.6 Scope of the Study

This study focuses on secondary schools in Lagos State. It examines the role of librarians and the activities they provide to promote information literacy. The study also covers the challenges librarians face. It does not include primary schools or tertiary institutions.

1.7 Definition of Key Terms

Librarian refers to a trained professional who manages library services and supports users.
Information Literacy refers to the ability to locate, evaluate and use information responsibly.
Secondary School Students refers to learners in junior and senior secondary classes in Lagos State.
Library Activities refer to structured lessons, programmes and guidance provided by librarians to support learning.