Library and Information Services to the Visually Impaired-The Role of Academic Libraries

Libraries have a moral obligation to make information available to all categories of users regardless of their gender, age, race, political affiliation or disability. However, a lot of people have limited access to information materials most especially in developing countries like Nigeria. A review of the literature shows that library and information services to the visually impaired in Nigeria is largely undertaken by Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). Years of underfunding and neglect has weakened the functionality of the public libraries in this regard. Using the interview method, the study assessed library and information provision to the visually impaired by academic libraries across the country. The findings revealed that none of the libraries surveyed has Braille book, talking books, talking newspaper and assistive technologies were not available in the libraries. The only materials that were available were a few audio books. The study suggested some practical solutions to improving library and information services to the visually handicapped in Nigeria.