Provision of Library and Information Resources and Services on Suicide: Nigerian Libraries Perspective

Abstract:

This paper seeks to highlight the services and resources provided by Nigerian libraries on the prevalent incidents of suicide. The library is a hub of activities and its major purpose is to provide the necessary and needed information to its teeming users. Library and information resources are those materials provided by the library both in printed and electronic formats which include the provision of information on suicide. These resources aid the provision of various information services such as current awareness service, selective dissemination of information, reader advisory service, and lots more in libraries. The diverse information services can be provided in collaboration with NGOs to create public awareness, provide signages on suicide and also train librarians on how to interact with users who are likely to possess such traits with the help of the available resources that would help in suicide prevention and also direction on how to get psychological help. From the literature review, very little is written on suicide by authors in Nigeria and it is a fact that Nigerian libraries do not give special attention to the provision of resources on suicide especially the preventive aspect of it; therefore, a recommendation for a special corner in the library for such resources was proffered. Keywords: Nigerian libraries, library and information services, suicide, public awareness