THE CALIBRE OF SCHOOL LIBRARY PERSONNEL AND THEIR CAREER PROGRESSION: THE ROLE OF LIBRARIANS’ REGISTRATION COUNCIL OFNIGERIA (LRCN)

Abstract

This study examined the calibre of school library personnel and their career progression: The role of Librarians Registration council of Nigeria (LRCN). Three specific objectives and three corresponding research questions were raised to guide the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and the area is Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District. The population of the study was 28 personnel in school libraries in private (20) and public (8) schools. Data collection was done through interviews and observation checklist. The entire 28 personnel in and the libraries under study were used as sample purposively. Percentage scores was used to analyse the obtained data. Findings through the observation checklist which aligned with the interview session revealed that only 4 school library personnel in four (4) private schools had professional qualification and only one (1) personnel in one public school had professional qualification. No one was particularly assigned the duty of manning the school libraries with a negligible percentage of professionals in both private and public schools. Findings from the interview showed that many individuals who had an opportunity of working in the library or who actually chose the profession did so as a result of interest but registered their displeasure that other things that characterize other professions like job description, public recognition and service orientation were lacking and voiced that these can work negatively on their career progression even if they had to delve into the profession. A few were however aware of the educational opportunities in librarianship and would think of furthering their studies. Recommendations included among other things that LRCN should set up a certification module for librarians in school libraries thereby enhancing and fostering qualitative learning at the foundational level.