Background of the Study:
Independent research is a cornerstone of academic excellence, enabling students to develop critical analysis and problem-solving skills. School libraries play a crucial role in fostering these skills by providing access to relevant resources, research guides, and an environment conducive to self-directed study. In Bakura Local Government Area, Zamfara State, libraries are increasingly becoming centers for research support, offering comprehensive collections of books, academic journals, and online databases (Olayinka, 2023). By hosting training sessions and workshops on research methodologies, libraries empower students to independently locate, evaluate, and synthesize information. However, challenges such as limited access to up-to-date digital resources, inadequate librarian support, and budget constraints may restrict the full potential of libraries in promoting independent research (Aminu, 2024). This study examines the influence of school libraries on students’ independent research capabilities, aiming to identify effective practices and recommend improvements for enhancing research proficiency among secondary school students (Ibrahim, 2025).
Statement of the Problem:
In Bakura, inadequate library resources and insufficient research training limit students’ ability to conduct independent research effectively, thereby impeding their academic progress and critical thinking development (Usman, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
To evaluate the support provided by libraries for independent research.
To identify challenges affecting research proficiency.
To recommend strategies for enhancing research skills.
Research Questions:
How do libraries support independent research?
What challenges hinder effective research practices?
What improvements can enhance library-based research support?
Significance of the Study:
This study is significant as it emphasizes the importance of library resources in building students’ independent research skills. The findings will help improve the quality and availability of research materials, thus enhancing academic performance and critical thinking. (Chinwe, 2023)
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
The study is limited to secondary schools in Bakura Local Government Area, Zamfara State, focusing on library support for independent research and excluding other academic support systems.
Definitions of Terms:
Independent Research: The process by which students autonomously seek, analyze, and interpret information.
Research Proficiency: The level of skill in conducting effective academic inquiry.
Digital Databases: Online platforms that provide access to scholarly resources.
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