Library funding in Nigeria: past, present and future

Abstract

PurposeTo document current sources of revenue for Nigerian libraries, and offer suggestions for alternative funding. Nigerian libraries nation‐wide depend mainly on annual budget allocations from the government.Design/methodology/approachSurveys current literature to determine the current source of funds for each type of library, and then identifies various alternative funding sources that libraries have tried in the past. Each alternative funding source is described, with significant advantages and disadvantages noted when applicable.FindingsFunds for Nigerian library and information services are traditionally derived from a parent institution. These revenues vary from a fixed percentage of an institution's overall budget to an ad hoc arrangement. Most libraries receive far less funding than the percentage that is usually earmarked for them.Originality/valueEmerging spending patterns and societal pressure require libraries to launch new and sustained initiatives to generate funds internally. Steady exploitation of money‐yielding ventures, such as consulting, soliciting donations and pricing information services, can generate revenue. Libraries can also share resources in order to expand their services.