Prof. Chinwe Anunobi, the National Librarian and CEO of the National Library, announced that the library has issued over 26,000 International Standard Book Numbers (ISBNs) to publishers across Nigeria in 2024.
Anunobi highlighted that researchers and the public no longer need to visit the library’s headquarters for services like obtaining ISBNs, International Standard Serial Numbers (ISSNs), or newspaper publication indices. These services are now accessible online through the National Library of Nigeria’s website and social media platforms.
The library currently has branches in 33 states, including the Federal Capital Territory. However, branches in Kebbi, Zamfara, Delta, and Anambra are still in the process of receiving land donations for establishing library offices.
In an exclusive interview with The Punch on Friday, Anunobi reflected on her tenure since assuming office on September 14, 2021. She expressed her commitment to building and strengthening connections within the library sector. “When I began my role on 14th September 2021, my goal was to build and strengthen bridges. Now, I want to see how we are maintaining these bridges despite various challenges,” she said. Approaching her third year in office, Anunobi acknowledged the internal and external challenges faced, including limited staff and the impact of fuel price hikes on staff mobility. However, she emphasized the library’s resilience, stating, “We remain undaunted.”
Anunobi also pointed out the library’s positive contributions to the nation. “The National Library of Nigeria can be counted among the agencies contributing positively to the nation. We are fostering unity as a family, building the capacity of our staff.” Recently, 103 new staff members were employed to support these efforts, and the library has adopted automated processes. “We now have over 20,000 titles deposited in the National Library of Nigeria from the 36 states of the federation and the FCT,” she added.
Highlighting the library’s technological advancements, Anunobi mentioned that the international community and artificial intelligence platforms now reference the National Library of Nigeria for information. She noted, “If you are searching for information from a newspaper, you no longer need to manually browse the pages. Simply visit the index on our website to access any information published online by the newspaper.” From January to September this year alone, the library has issued over 26,000 ISBNs.
Furthermore, the National Library has introduced various digital services, including a virtual library, an Online Public Access Catalogue, and a subscription to ProQuest for e-books. Additionally, they are compiling a compendium of numerals and alphabets in Nigeria’s indigenous languages. Reflecting on her tenure, Anunobi concluded, “It has been three eventful years, and we are hopeful of overcoming our challenges, especially with the considerable support we are receiving from the Honourable Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman.”
