The use of information, awareness and communication in conflict resolution: Role of libraries in South-East Nigeria

Abstract

Considering the need for peace in the world of today and the ill effects of conflicts, this study delved into the contributions of libraries towards conflict resolution of major communal conflicts in SouthEast Nigeria. The main objective of the study was to find out different library and information services, resources, programmes and other media provided and utilized by the libraries towards conflict resolution; the challenges they face and strategies to enhance their contributions towards conflict resolution. Public and academic libraries within the conflict zone were used for the study and 20 heads of the main libraries and their branch libraries supplied the needed data. Interview, questionnaire and observations were used as instruments for data collection while data was analyzed using simple frequency counts and percentages. Major findings showed that the libraries had reasonable collections but very few on conflict resolution, the libraries had little interest in conflict resolution and did not make adequate provision towards that. The libraries faced challenges like poor funding, and infrastructural facilities and improved funding is among the strategies which could be used in enhancing their contribution to conflict resolution and peace building.