BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE: THE RELEVANCE OF LIBRARIES AND OTHER INFORMATION AGENTS IN FOSTERING KNOWLEDGE GROWTH AMONG FARMERS IN NIGER DELTA

Abstract

Abstract

Bridging the digital divide and the relevance of librarians and other information agents in Niger Delta is investigated in this study. The study explores the areas the public librarians and agric extension advisors provide information services to the rural dwellers in Niger Delta to foster knowledge growth that will improve agricultural productivity and enhance their economic and social life. Questionnaire is the instrument used for collection of data. The population of the study comprises the 348 Farmers selected from major ethnic groups in Niger Delta region namely: Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko and Urhobo. The questionnaire was administrated to farmers in Ofagbe, Ellu and Aviara in Isoko North and Isoko South. Olomu, Ewu and Otokutu were the communities visited in Urhobo cultural area. The communities visited in Ijaw area were Burutu, Patani and Egbema, while the communities visited among Itsekiri settlement areas include Ugborodo, Ugbegungun and Obodo. The role of public librarian’s healthcare delivery personnel and agric extension advisors will help to bridge the digital divide in Niger Delta region.