Background of the study
Library outreach programs have the potential to empower marginalized groups, particularly rural women, by providing access to educational resources and skill development opportunities. In Efon Local Government Area, Ekiti State, library outreach initiatives focus on promoting literacy, vocational training, and digital literacy among rural women. These programs help bridge the educational gap and foster self-reliance by offering workshops, reading clubs, and hands-on training sessions that equip women with skills necessary for economic independence (Folorunsho, 2023). The outreach initiatives also create a supportive environment where rural women can share experiences, network, and access information that contributes to informed decision-making. Despite these promising interventions, challenges such as cultural barriers, limited funding, and logistical constraints continue to hinder full participation and empowerment. This study examines the impact of library outreach on enhancing rural women’s empowerment in Efon by assessing program effectiveness and identifying opportunities for improvement to better serve this target group (Adekunle, 2024).
Statement of the problem
Although library outreach initiatives in Efon are designed to empower rural women, their impact remains inconsistent due to various challenges. Cultural resistance, inadequate resources, and logistical difficulties have resulted in low participation and limited benefits. This study aims to investigate these challenges and evaluate the extent to which library outreach contributes to the empowerment of rural women, with the objective of proposing strategies to enhance program effectiveness (Ibrahim, 2023).
Objectives of the study
To assess the impact of library outreach on rural women’s empowerment.
To identify challenges limiting the effectiveness of these programs.
To propose strategies for enhancing outreach initiatives for rural women.
Research questions
How does library outreach affect rural women’s empowerment in Efon?
What challenges impede effective participation in these programs?
What measures can improve the impact of library outreach on rural women?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it highlights the role of library outreach in fostering empowerment among rural women. The findings will provide critical insights for policymakers and community leaders to enhance outreach programs, ultimately contributing to greater socio-economic development and gender equity in Efon (Ogun, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
Limited to the topic only.
Definitions of terms
Library Outreach: Initiatives designed to extend library services to underserved communities.
Women’s Empowerment: Processes that enable women to gain control over their lives through education and economic opportunities.
Rural Development: Efforts aimed at improving the quality of life and economic prospects in rural areas.
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