Lagos NBRP Strengthens Ties with Lagos State Library Board, Advocates for Reading Culture

Lagos, April 2, 2026 – In a significant step toward fostering literacy and promoting a vibrant reading culture, the Lagos Chapter of the Network of Book Clubs and Reading Promoters (NBRP) paid an official courtesy visit to the Acting Director of the Lagos State Library Board on Tuesday. The meeting, held at the Library Board’s headquarters, focused on building a stronger partnership to ensure NBRP members gain unrestricted access to the state’s libraries for reading activities and literacy-driven events.

The visit was marked by an atmosphere of collaboration and optimism. The Acting Director assured the NBRP delegation of their full support, affirming that all 12 operational libraries across Lagos State would be accessible to NBRP members for reading programs and other activities that promote literacy. The Acting Director also confirmed that while the Ikorodu Library remains under renovation, libraries in Yaba, Ilupeju, and Agege are already equipped with internet facilities, providing a modern edge to public library services.

However, the discussion also highlighted certain challenges. When asked about plans for introducing e-library capabilities, the Acting Director admitted that the high capital cost remains a barrier, though there is hope for future advancements. Addressing concerns about the lack of publicity for the libraries, the Board revealed ongoing discussions with media outlets such as LTV and Arise TV to launch a reading-focused program, with plans to involve NBRP members once it goes live.

Another key issue raised during the meeting was the revival of library periods in public schools. The Library Board clarified that public school libraries fall under the jurisdiction of the Lagos State Ministry of Education, not the Library Board. Despite this, the Board reiterated its commitment to literacy promotion through its flagship programs, World Book Day and Lagos Reads, and promised to invite NBRP to participate once approvals for these events are secured.

The NBRP delegation also used the opportunity to discuss their upcoming event at the Nigerian International Book Fair (NIBF) in May 2026. The Library Board pledged its participation, further solidifying the collaboration.

The visit was not without acts of generosity. Dr. Raphael James, Director-General of the Centre for Research, Information, and Media Development (CRIMMD), extended an invitation to the Acting Director to visit his center and announced a donation of 130 books—10 for each of the 13 libraries managed by the Board. Similarly, Foluke Falayi, a celebrated author of over 20 children’s books, donated 20 copies of her works to the Library Board, further enriching its collection.

Before departing, the NBRP team toured the serene and well-organized library facilities and received free copies of Alausa Alert newspapers from the Director. Reflecting on the visit, an NBRP representative described it as “a step in the right direction” for promoting a robust reading culture in Lagos State.

With this renewed partnership, the Lagos NBRP and the Lagos State Library Board are poised to make significant strides in fostering literacy and ensuring that libraries remain critical hubs for education and community engagement.