Presentation short abstract

The study investigated the environmental information needs and seeking behaviour of public library users at the Kwara State Library Board, Ilorin. The study showed the environment-related information needed by library users and behaviour regarding the environment-related information search.

Presentation long abstract

The study investigated the environmental information needs and seeking behaviour of public library users at the Kwara State Library Board, Ilorin. The research adopted a descriptive survey design, which allowed the collection of data from a representative sample of 292 registered library users, including students, researchers, professionals, and other members of the public. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled Environmental Information Needs and Seeking Behaviour Questionnaire (EINSBQ), validated by experts in Library and Information Science, and analysed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, and means.The findings revealed that library users require information on diverse environmental issues, including climate change, waste management, flood and erosion control, pollution, environmental health and sanitation, renewable energy sources, biodiversity and wildlife preservation, and environmental laws and policies. The study also identified primary sources of environmental information as books, newspapers/magazines, government publications, and community leaders. Users employed various techniques to search for information, such as keyword searches on Google and other search engines, browsing library shelves, consulting librarians, using academic online databases, and referencing textbooks. However, challenges such as limited access to current materials, inconsistent electricity supply, and low awareness of available resources were observed. Based on these findings, the study recommended that the library prioritize updating its collections, subscribe to relevant journals, organize environmental-themed workshops, enhance electricity supply through renewable sources, and collaborate with environmental agencies and community leaders to improve access to timely and relevant environmental information.