An evaluation of library collaboration with community centers in enhancing educational development in Bauchi Local Government Area, Bauchi State
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Background of the study
Library collaboration with community centers has emerged as a pivotal strategy for broadening access to educational resources and fostering lifelong learning among underserved populations. In many developing regions, including parts of Northern Nigeria, public libraries alone struggle to meet the diverse needs of learners, leading to gaps in literacy and skill acquisition (Abubakar, 2024). By partnering with community centers, libraries can leverage local networks to host reading clubs, digital literacy workshops, and vocational training sessions that complement formal schooling (Smith, 2023). Such synergies have been linked to improvements in reading habits, critical thinking skills, and community engagement in several pilot programs across West Africa (Chukwu, 2025). In Bauchi Local Government Area, despite the presence of both public libraries and community centers, little is known about the extent and effectiveness of their collaboration. Preliminary surveys suggest that community centers are underutilized as venues for library-led initiatives, and that logistical challenges—such as resource sharing agreements and staff training—impede program delivery (Ibrahim, 2025). Understanding how these partnerships operate, the barriers they face, and their impact on learners’ outcomes is essential for designing scalable models of educational development. This study therefore seeks to evaluate existing collaborations between libraries and community centers in Bauchi LGA, identify best practices, and recommend strategies to enhance educational access and quality through integrated community-based services (Abdullahi, 2023).
Statement of the problem
Despite significant investment in library infrastructure in Bauchi LGA, literacy rates and academic performance remain below national averages, particularly among marginalized groups (Okoro, 2024). Reports indicate that community centers, which could serve as extensions of library services, are seldom engaged in joint programming, resulting in duplicated efforts and wasted resources (Musa, 2025). Library staff often lack clear guidelines for collaboration, while community center coordinators cite insufficient training and unclear communication channels as major obstacles (Usman, 2023). Consequently, many potential beneficiaries—especially out‑of‑school youths and adult learners—remain unreached, perpetuating educational inequities. Without a systematic evaluation of these partnerships, policymakers cannot formulate targeted interventions to optimize resource utilization or enhance program effectiveness. This gap underscores the urgent need to assess the nature, scope, and impact of library–community center collaborations on educational development in Bauchi LGA.
Objectives of the study
To examine the current models of collaboration between public libraries and community centers in Bauchi LGA.
To assess the impact of these collaborations on learners’ literacy and educational outcomes.
To identify challenges and propose strategies for strengthening library–community center partnerships.
Research questions
What forms of collaboration exist between public libraries and community centers in Bauchi LGA?
How do collaborative programs influence participants’ literacy levels and academic performance?
What barriers hinder effective collaboration, and how can they be addressed?
Significance of the study
This study provides evidence-based insights into how libraries and community centers can work together to enhance educational development in Bauchi LGA. By highlighting successful collaboration models and identifying common challenges, the research informs library practitioners, community center managers, and policymakers on best practices for resource sharing and program delivery. The findings will guide the design of integrated learning initiatives that improve literacy rates, support lifelong learning, and foster community resilience, thereby contributing to sustainable development goals in the region.
Scope and limitations of the study
This research focuses exclusively on collaborations between public libraries and community centers within Bauchi Local Government Area. It does not examine partnerships involving private or academic libraries, nor does it cover other local government areas in Bauchi State. Constraints include limited access to archival records of past collaborations and potential response bias in stakeholder interviews.
Definitions of terms
Collaboration: A structured partnership in which two or more organizations share resources and responsibilities to achieve common educational goals.
Community center: A local facility that provides social, cultural, and educational services to residents, often managed by non‑profit or governmental bodies.
Educational development: The process of improving learning outcomes, skills acquisition, and knowledge dissemination among individuals and communities.
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