THE ROLE OF LIBRARY IN PROMOTING CULTURAL HERITAGE: PERSPECTIVE OF HISTORY UNDERGRADUATES

Abstract

This study focused on the need for library involvement in promoting cultural heritage, awareness of the community and major stakeholders on the role of libraries as custodians of these materials, the rate at which libraries feel responsible as agents of promoting historical materials, and the challenges encountered by researchers when trying to access cultural heritage materials in the library. The study population comprised one hundred and five (105) history undergraduates from the University of Ilorin, Obafemi Awolowo University, and Osun State College of Education. A questionnaire titled Library as an Important Agent in Promoting Cultural Heritage: Perspective of History Undergraduate (LIAPCHPHUQ) was used. Descriptive survey research design was adopted, and simple random sampling was used in selecting participants. Ensuring validity, the instrument was reviewed by research experts from the University of Ilorin. Reliability was established through a test-retest method with selected respondents. Data collected were analysed using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Findings revealed limited awareness, inadequate access, weak dissemination efforts, and suggested increased sensitization and stakeholder engagement