Archive Preservation and Indigenous Knowledge Access in Public Library in Benue State, Nigeria

This study examines the preservation and accessibility of indigenous knowledge in public libraries 
in Benue State, Nigeria, with a particular focus on library staff roles and responsibilities. A 
descriptive survey research design was adopted, targeting public library staff, including librarians, 
archivists, and library assistants who are involved in the management and preservation of 
indigenous knowledge. The study population comprised 81 public library staff members, selected 
using a stratified random sampling technique to ensure proportional representation across staff 
categories. Structured questionnaires served as the primary data collection instrument, gathering 
primarily quantitative data (clarify any qualitative component) on preservation practices, 
challenges, and access to indigenous knowledge. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics 
(means and standard deviations), to assess preservation practices, associated challenges, and 
levels of accessibility of indigenous knowledge resources. The findings indicate that although 
some progress has been recorded in the collection and preservation of indigenous knowledge, 
significant challenges, such as inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, lack of trained personnel, 
and limited access points for users, continue to constrain the effective management of indigenous 
knowledge. The study recommends increased funding, targeted staff training, and infrastructural 
improvement to enhance the preservation and accessibility of indigenous knowledge in public 
libraries. This study contributes to existing scholarship by providing empirical evidence on public 
libraries’ roles in indigenous knowledge preservation and access, while identifying operational 
strengths and constraints among library staff in the study area.