Surviving the austerity: the example of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Library, Bauchi, Nigeria

Abstract

This study uses official documents and interviews to examine the creative ways that Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Library adapts to survive austerity. To circumvent the shortfalls in books and journal acquisitions, the Library receives enhanced funding, uses UNESCO coupons and actively solicits for gifts, exchanges, and repository privileges. To sustain basic services and to have a steady supply of stationery, the library has commercialised its photocopying, video coverage, lamination, training programme, and other services. The setting up of the National Documentation and Information Centre has the double blessing of attracting books and donations of journals, and of raising funds for the running of the Library’s essential services.

Citation

Ogunrombi, S.A., Ekoja, I.I. and Oji, S.E. (1998), "Surviving the austerity: the example of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Library, Bauchi, Nigeria", Library Management, Vol. 19 No. 1, pp. 42-48. https://doi.org/10.1108/01435129810198620