Top 15 Universities with the Biggest Library in Nigeria
According to American Library Association, (ALA) “A library is a collection of resources in a variety of formats that is organized by information professionals or other experts who provide convenient physical, digital, bibliographic, or intellectual access and offer targeted services and programs with the mission of educating, informing, or entertaining a variety of audiences and the goal of stimulating individual learning and advancing society as a whole.”
In a much more approachable term, books are not the only thing that should be found in the library, what makes a library unique is the ability to provide needed information and resources needed for research. A library superseded a building, or how beautiful it looks. It must be a source of information, and a massive infrastructure for the collection of data, and process information
This website compiled a list of the top universities in Nigeria based on a preliminary review of available online data, focusing on their history, resources, and advancements in technology.
Top 15 Biggest Library in Nigeria
Below are the top 15 Libraries in Nigeria, in terms of quality, output, data collection, structure and collection of processed information.
- Kwara State University Library
- Ahmadu Bello University Library
- University of Ibadan Library
- University of Lagos Library
- Covenant University Library
- Babcock University Library
- University Of Ilorin Library
- Nnamdi Azikiwe Library
- Landmark University Library
- Nile University Library
- Obafemi Awolowo University Library
- Federal University Of Abeokuta ( FUNAAB) Library
- LAUTECH University Library
- University of Abuja Library
- Bayero University Kano Library
Read Also: Top 10 Most Beautiful University in Nigeria
1. Kwara State University Library
KWASU Library serves as the primary library for Kwara State University, established in 2009 to support the institution’s educational goals. It consists of two buildings: a three-story main library and a six-story annex.
History
The KWASU Library was established in 2009. Initially located within the Faculty of Pure and Applied Science, the library was later relocated to the Faculty of Agriculture. The virtual library was introduced in 2012.
The main library is situated in Malete, with reading sections also available in Oke Osi and Ilesha-Baruba. The library was officially opened to the public in 2020 after its commissioning and was named after President Muhammadu Buhari on July 6, 2019. The library complex is located on the Kwara State University campus in Malete.
Collections and Resources
KWASU Library boasts one of the largest collections of literature in West Africa, with over 2 million volumes of books and more than 100,000 periodical titles. This extensive collection solidifies its status as the largest library in the region.
Additionally, the university has made significant investments in expanding its library resources, including various procurement initiatives under the TETFUND Intervention in Library Development from 2011 to 2014. These efforts have included the acquisition of assorted books and software components for the e-library.
2. Ahmadu Bello University Library
Kashim Ibrahim Library is one of the largest academic libraries in Africa, situated on the main campus of Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, Nigeria. It is recognized as one of Nigeria’s first-generation libraries and is commonly referred to as K.I.L. by the university community.
History
The library was established in 1955 for the Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology, Zaria Branch. A larger complex was built in 1963, and the current library building was officially opened on December 10, 1976, by Alhaji Sir Kashim Ibrahim, after whom it is named. The library occupies an area of 13,000 square meters and initially housed 500,000 volumes of books and 6,350 periodical titles.
Collections and Resources
The main library is a three-story building located on the Samaru campus and includes numerous offices, departments, sections, and units that support the various administrative and technical staff. It features specialized divisions such as the serial section, reference section, CD-ROM search room, media division, reserved books unit, and a casual reading parlor.
In addition to the main library, there are several satellite libraries or branches located throughout the university, including the Main Campus, Kongo Campus, Teaching Hospital, and other centers, even extending to locations outside Zaria like the SBRS Funtua.
Today, the library’s total holdings have grown to over 1.2 million volumes of books and 66,000 periodical titles. Collections for arts and social sciences are located on the first floor, while physical sciences, medicine, and engineering materials can be found on the second floor.
3. The University of Ibadan Library
The University of Ibadan Library, known as the Kenneth Dike Library, was established in 1948 as part of the university’s academic community. It houses over two million academic materials, including books, theses, and journals.
History
The Kenneth Dike Library, originally known as the Main Library, was established in 1948 and began with around 3,600 volumes of books transferred from the library at Yaba Higher College. It is recognized as the first professionally managed library in Nigeria, staffed by a qualified librarian who offered reference and research services.
Collections and Resources
The library features a significant African-oriented collection and serves as a closed-access reference point for scholars interested in Nigerian history. This collection has developed over the years from early donations focusing on Nigerian and African materials, significantly supported by contributions from notable figures such as Carr, Macaulay, and Edward Reginald Jerrim, establishing the library as an important repository in Nigeria.
In 1950, the library became a depository for published books from Nigeria. Its collection includes rare Arabic manuscripts, books, newspaper clippings, photographs, archives of colonial-era materials, and government reports.
The Kenneth Dike Library currently holds over 700,000 volumes and accommodates 1,250 readers. It is accessible to senior staff and students, as well as the senior staff of the University College Hospital, Ibadan, and alumni of the university.
4. The University of Lagos Library
The University of Lagos Library, established in 1962, is dedicated to supporting the teaching, learning, and research activities of the institution. It was originally headed by Professor Yetunde Abosede Zaid and moved to its current permanent site in Akoka Yaba in September 1965. Other prominent branch libraries include the Education Library and the Taslim Olawale Elias Library.
History
The library, established in 1962, began its operations on the third floor of a former secondary school building while the university was temporarily located in Idi-Araba, awaiting the construction of its permanent site at Yaba, near the lagoon. This temporary accommodation was utilized until August 1965, when the library moved to its current building. The new facility is centrally air-conditioned and designed to include a bindery, photocopying unit, audio-visual section, lecture theatre, and other essential features expected of a top-tier university library.
Miss Elizabeth M. Moys served as the first University Librarian from 1963 to 1965. She played a vital role in developing the library’s collections with collaboration from academic staff. The library’s initial materials were selected to support the institution’s teaching and research efforts.
The Indian Merchants Association of Lagos contributed funds for establishing the Gandhi Memorial Research Library, popularly known as Gandhi Library. Notable senior library staff who assisted Miss Moys during the library’s early years included Mr. B.A. Amaechi, Mrs. P. Shoyinka, Mr. C.C. Momoh, Mr. S.A. Orimoloye, Mr. H.A. Odetoyinbo, and Mr. A. Nitechi.
The university crisis of 1965 significantly impacted all university units, including the library, resulting in the resignation of many staff members, including Miss Moys. Mr. B.B. Bankole was appointed as the acting university librarian, a role later confirmed. By September 1963, the university library had acquired 12,121 volumes, with 300 additional bound materials funded by a UNESCO mission in the Engineering faculty. By 1971, the library’s collection had grown to 100,000 volumes.
Collections and Resources
The library’s current building consists of three stories and an underground floor, covering a total area of 63,360 square feet, with a capacity to hold over 250,000 volumes and accommodate 800 readers. Over the years, it has developed a comprehensive collection of research and teaching materials across various fields to support the university’s educational programs. As of November 24, 2015, the library included over 500,000 accessioned volumes of books, 30,000 periodicals, and a significant collection of rare books, prints, and archives.
Under the Lagos State Publication Law (Cap. 107 of 1973), the university library serves as a legal depository, receiving two copies of every book published in Lagos State. It is also a depository for publications from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and the International Labour Organization (ILO). Additionally, the library has standing orders for selected publications by UNESCO, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO). All materials are organized according to the Library of Congress classification scheme.
5. Covenant University Library
The Covenant University Library, officially known as the Centre for Learning Resources (CLR), is a state-of-the-art facility that has fully computerized all routine activities. It offers a functional virtual library service, providing staff and students access to the Web Public Access Catalogue (WebPAC) and other electronic resources from any location with internet access.
History
The library’s history dates back to the opening of the university in 2002. Initially, it occupied the ground floor of a wing of the College of Business and Social Sciences until 2004, when the library building was completed.
From 2002 to 2004, the library’s operations were automated using in-house software. However, this software became inadequate as the collections of the CLR exceeded 10,000 volumes. As a result, in 2004, the library migrated to ‘Alice for Windows’ software to better manage its growing collection.
Collections and Resources
The library’s collection is rapidly growing, with volumes reaching into the millions. Covenant University boasts the largest database in Nigeria and has achieved high efficiency in library usage. However, it is rated fifth in overall usage due to its relatively recent establishment and lower historical usage compared to other prominent libraries.
6. Babcock University Library
Babcock University Library, located in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria, uses the Koha Integrated Library Management Software (ILMS). The library is supported by a technical integration system, with assistance from Marshall Breeding, who is responsible for procuring and maintaining this automation system.
Collections and Resources
The Lazz Memorial Library (LOML) houses approximately 67,519 volumes across various disciplines. The Technical Services Department, located on the ground floor, plays a crucial role in processing newly acquired information materials. This department also lists new arrivals to inform users about their availability.
The library offers access to a variety of academic journals, including:
- Agora
- AJOL
- Archives of Nigerian News Stories
- CSCANADA
- Bioline
- Bookboon
- DOAB (Directory of Open Access Books)
- DOAJ (Directory of Open Access Journals)
- EBSCOHOST
- ERIC (Education Resources Information Center)
7. The University Of Ilorin Library
The University of Ilorin Library was established in 1976, with Mr. B.A. Oni-Orisan appointed as the University Librarian, marking the beginning of a dedicated library service for the university. The library officially commenced operations on October 25, 1976, during the Principal’s inaugural address to the university’s foundation students and staff.
Library Structure
The University of Ilorin Library system comprises three components:
- Main Library: Located at the permanent site of the university.
- College Library: Situated at the Mini Campus in the College of Health Sciences.
- Law Library: Found at the main campus.
The library can accommodate over 1,000 users and is recognized as one of the most efficient federal university libraries in Nigeria.
8. Nnamdi Azikiwe Library
The Nnamdi Azikiwe Library at the University of Nigeria is the second oldest university library in Nigeria, established in October 1960. Initially, it occupied two small rooms in the Faculty of Education building. Starting from scratch, the library did not inherit an organized collection but benefitted significantly from generous donations, particularly from its namesake, the first President of Nigeria, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, who contributed over 12,000 books, journal parts, and pamphlets on various subjects.
Historical Growth
Located on the University of Nigeria campus, the library has steadily grown over the years. Between 1964 and 1967, it expanded its collection by approximately 20,000 volumes annually. The library was also among the few academic libraries in Nigeria to adopt Information and Communication Technology (ICT) components in the 1970s, beginning to automate its serial records in 1975.
9. The Landmark University Library
The Landmark University Library, known as the Centre for Learning Resources (CLR), is a world-class facility featuring a magnificent two-story glass structure equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. It has a seating capacity of 1,700.
Collections and Accessibility
The CLR houses an impressive collection of over 5 million books in both print and electronic formats, along with a wide range of electronic journals. The library is fully automated and can be accessed globally through its WebPAC system, facilitating easy access to resources for users anywhere in the world.
10. The Nile University Library
The Nile University Library is strategically located next to the Volta Academic Building and serves as a vital hub of knowledge and resources for the academic community.
Collections and Services
The library boasts a collection of over 20,000 intellectually rigorous books and more than 500 periodicals, including both local and international journals, making it a treasure trove of information. It offers a wide range of services, including research assistance and access to specialized materials, provided by a team of experienced librarians.
The Nile University Library is a modern, hybrid facility that seamlessly integrates physical and virtual resources to provide an unparalleled experience. Fully automated and powered by the YORDAM Integrated Library System, it ensures that users have access to a wealth of knowledge whether on campus or remotely.
11. The Obafemi Awolowo University Library
The Hezekiah Oluwasanmi Library at Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Nigeria is the university’s central library. It houses academic resources for students, staff, and the community. The Library, features two multi-story wings strategically located at the heart of the campus. With a seating capacity of 2,500, the library provides access to a vast collection of books and journals through the internet.
Obafemi Awolowo University Library has limited online information that provides context for its ranking and rich history, which is why we ranked number 11.
12. Federal University Of Abeokuta ( FUNAAB) Library
Formerly known as the Nimbe Adedipe Library, the FUNAAB Library is an architectural showpiece that was officially commissioned in October 1995 and became fully operational in December 1997. Named after the founding Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nimbe Adedipe, the library plays a crucial role in supporting the university’s tripodal mandate of teaching, research, and extension services.
Collection and Capacity
The library has a capacity to hold 300,000 volumes, currently housing 214,162 volumes of books and monographs and 16,365 volumes of bound journals. It subscribes to 185 foreign and local journals in both electronic and print formats. Centrally located, the library accommodates 600 users at a time and features a 24-hour reading room for 100 users. A new extension has been constructed, adding capacity for 200 users and including facilities such as an e-library, multimedia equipment, and conference rooms.
Electronic Resources and Access
The library began its automation program in 1994, transitioning from DOS-based TINLIB software to the more versatile GLAS (Graphical Library Automated System), which supports up to 50 workstations. In the 2012/13 session, it adopted KOHA, an Integrated Library Management Software, allowing users to access resources and services remotely.
The library has developed a user-friendly and interactive portal, accessible at www.library.unaab.edu.ng, which includes links to open-access journals. The aggregated databases offer access to over 20,000 scientific journal titles published by reputable houses, scholarly societies, and scientific associations.
13. LAUTECH University Library
The Olusegun Oke Library (OOL) serves as the main academic library of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria. Established in July 1990, shortly after the university’s inauguration, the library was originally known as the LAUTECH Library and was set up as one of the university’s academic units.
The library established a virtual library in 2007 and an electronic library in 2012, supported by the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) of the Nigerian Communication Commission.
Collections and Resources
The library holds over 42,000 volumes of print materials and provides access to 10 million electronic resources across various databases, covering nearly all fields of knowledge relevant to the university community.
Electronic Resources and Access
The library operates an automated system using Koha Integrated Library Management Software for cataloging and classifying materials. While some routine activities, such as user registration and the charging and discharging of materials, are performed manually, bibliographic details of the library’s collections are digitized and accessible via computer terminals in the main library.
The library maintains an Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC), which allows users to view available resources without searching through all the shelves, thereby enhancing the efficiency of resource location.
14. University of Abuja Library
The University of Abuja (UofA) Library was established in 1988 to support the university’s teaching, learning, and research objectives. Initially focused on providing printed resources, the library has since expanded its offerings.
Collections and Capacity
- Total Capacity: 250,000 volumes
- Current Collection:
- Books and Monographs: 114,162 volumes
- Bound Journals: 14,365 volumes
- Subscriptions: 185 foreign and local journals in both electronic and print formats.
15. Bayero University Kano Library
Established in 1964, the Bayero University Library is dedicated to supporting the university’s goals in teaching, learning, and research. The library focuses on acquiring, organizing, and disseminating information in both printed and electronic formats.
Modern Technology and Services
- The library has embraced modern technology to enhance service delivery to its users.
- It has initiated Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI), providing alerts for available information resources.
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