Green library practices in selected academic libraries in Kwara State,Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated green library practices in selected academic libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria. The study adopted an exploratory design. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 18 librarians as the participants for the study, and the interview method was adopted for data collection. The findings reveal that all the academic libraries engaged in the fumigation of their environment to preserve library resources, and the level of adoption of information and communications technology resulted in the libraries having a high carbon footprint. The results also show that the academic libraries engaged in resource-sharing for economic sustainability and that they have value for their users in terms of social and cultural support. It is recommended that university management teams provide adequate funding to develop eco-friendly practices in university libraries, and that academic libraries provide solar systems to all their library units to enhance environmentally conscious practices.

Keywords

Environmental sustainability social sustainability economic sustainability green libraries sustainable libraries

Introduction

Green library initiatives emerged around the 1990s and, since that time, libraries have been adopting several practices to lessen their negative impact on the environment (Fedorowicz-Kruszewska, 2021). Green libraries are part of the larger green movement and also known as ‘sustainable libraries’ or ‘environmentally friendly libraries’; they are libraries with environmental concerns in mind and undertake projects that bring green ideas into the mainstream (Khalid et al., 2021). Many people view libraries as having a unique position in the green movement due to their selfless undertakings and the public and teaching-related nature of green libraries, being focused on minimizing their negative effects and maximizing their positive effects (Nikam, 2017). IFLA (2022) states that there are three categories of green library practice: economic sustainability, environmental sustainability and social sustainability.

Green libraries are becoming increasingly popular as a means of promoting sustainable practices in academic libraries. These libraries serve as important resources for research and learning, and they have the potential to model sustainable practices for the academic community. By adopting green practices, academic libraries can reduce their environmental impact while inspiring students and faculty to adopt environmentally conscious behaviour. The United Nations’ (2015) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development emphasizes the importance of promoting sustainable practices in all sectors of society, including education. The adoption of green library practices can help reduce global warming (Singh and Mishra, 2019) and the environmental impact of libraries’ practices (Aulisio, 2013).

Dempsey et al. (2011) note that social sustainability is wide-ranging and the core notions of social sustainability are social equity and community sustainability. In order to ensure social sustainability, libraries actively seek to reduce inequity, focusing on high-quality education, literacy, involvement in community activities, cross-cultural variety and social inclusion (IFLA, 2022). Other elements of social sustainability include social capital, human capital and well-being (Weingaertner and Moberg, 2014). Also, by serving as spaces where social antagonism might turn into unity, libraries may support social sustainability and democracy (Engström and Eckerdal, 2019; Jaguszewski and Williams, 2013). Meanwhile, it has been concluded that only a few libraries in Nigeria have implemented green library practices, and this is often unconsciously (Oyelude and Alabi, 2013). It has been observed that there is a growing trend among academic libraries to embrace social sustainability by incorporating green design principles in their new construction projects or renovation plans (Jones and Wong, 2016). The design process should encompass a wide range of customs, cultural practices, educational and economic backgrounds, demographics and ideas (Blewitt, 2012).

Long-term financial viability and prudent resource management are essential components of economic sustainability in libraries. Libraries should build more solid financial foundations by diversifying their sources of support, assuring the continuity of their operations and services (Singh and Mishra, 2019). Libraries need to carefully budget their expenses, monitor costs and find ways to reduce expenditure without compromising the quality of their services in the long term. By efficiently managing costs, libraries can make the most of their available funding and allocate resources effectively. At times, libraries provide paid services, such as specialist research assistance, printing and copying, renting out meeting spaces and organizing community activities (Zettervall and Nienow, 2019). Additionally, libraries might collaborate with neighbourhood companies and organizations to offer sponsorship possibilities, advertising space or jointly organized events (Pedersen and Netter, 2015). The central aim of this study is to examine green library practices in selected academic libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria.

Statement of the problem

Going green or becoming environmentally friendly requires immediate attention, planning and action; hence, it is essential for libraries to support their environment in going green and take a main position in environmental safety (Fourie, 2012). Despite increasing awareness of the importance of environmental sustainability, there is limited empirical evidence of green library practices in academic libraries in Nigeria. This gap makes it difficult to understand the current state of green library practices in academic libraries, as well as the challenges faced by academic libraries in the country. Leadership requires a modern set of abilities and the motivation to address the prevailing issues (whether social, economic, or environmental) in libraries. Furthermore, there is a lack of awareness and understanding among librarians of the importance of library sustainability in Nigeria (Oyelude and Alabi, 2013). This can lead to a lack of engagement with sustainable practices among users, which can limit the impact of sustainability efforts in academic libraries.

Aslam (2018) notes that there is a rising threat and global challenges are affecting library management. Over time, interest in the green revolution has grown in practically every sector, including the library sector. Libraries, which serve as gateways to knowledge, are accountable not just for promoting sustainability, but also for leading by example and thereby functioning as role models. Green features should be incorporated into the operations of libraries because they are essential for the health of library patrons. By identifying the practices of academic libraries and the challenges they face in promoting environmentally conscious practices, and providing recommendations for improving sustainability practices, this study aims to contribute to the promotion of sustainable practices in academic libraries in Kwara State. The academic libraries selected for this study are those at Kwara State University, Malete (state-government-owned); Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin (privately owned); and the University of Ilorin (federal-government-owned). They were selected based on the three types of ownership of higher institutions in Nigeria.

Research questions

The following research questions guided the study:

What are the environmental sustainability practices in the selected academic libraries in Kwara State?

What are the economic sustainability practices in the selected academic libraries in Kwara State?

What are the social sustainability practices the selected academic libraries in Kwara State?

What are the challenges encountered in carrying out green library practices in the selected academic libraries in Kwara State?

Literature review

Environmental sustainability practices in libraries

Jankowska et al. (2014) show that information literacy classes incorporated discussion on environmental practices and the community engagement of academic libraries. It has, however, been shown that the incorporation of environmental education into one subject matter is quite low (Sureda-Negre et al., 2014). Bakare and Bakare (2024) reveal that the majority of library and information science students at Lead City University in Nigeria believed that the revised curriculum encouraged sustainable environmental change because it gave the 21st-century librarian the necessary skill set (70%); it also promoted socially conscious librarians (53.2%), emphasized the economic implications of the library for sustainable environmental transformation (43.3%), and broadened students’ horizons.

Tribelhorn (2023) found that the library environmental committees in 12 academic libraries in the USA trained newly recruited librarians on environmental sustainability and the libraries engaged in environmentally sound practices. Such effective environmental practices may be a result of the formal approach adopted by the libraries. Roos and Guenther (2020) note that there should be an all-inclusive strategy in ensuring environmentally friendly practices in libraries. Thus, the idea of having a formally designed strategy may have an impact on the outcome of good environmental practices in libraries. Aulisio (2013) establishes that being a green library transcends beyond the library structure or architecture as it involves a general green library mission. The study also shows that only a few academic libraries in the USA are LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified.

Gupta (2020) suggests that there should be appropriate guidelines and regulations to evaluate the impact of libraries on environmental sustainability. Thus, metrics like LEED and GRIHA (the Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) are crucial in ascertaining the impact of libraries on environmental sustainability. Jones and Wong (2016) found that the Chinese University of Hong Kong Library is more than just a green library as it has an Indoor Air Quality Certificate (an award from the Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department) rating of ‘excellent’. This award considers elements such as formaldehyde, volatile organic compounds, ozone, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, respirable suspended particulates and several other chemicals in the indoor air.

Users’ right to access information in a safe environment should be enhanced by university libraries. However, the accessibility of information resources and services through information and communications technologies (ICTs) in academic libraries affects environmental sustainability (Anasi et al., 2018). Khalid et al. (2021) found that the rapid advancement of digital and technological innovations has made libraries’ current equipment and facilities irrelevant, leaving a significant carbon footprint. It has, however, been shown that gradual steps taken by libraries to participate in eco-friendly practices alleviates environmental hazards. Higón et al. (2017) note that developed countries have reached a stage where the increase in the level of ICT development means a decrease in the level of carbon emissions. However, the opposite is the case in developing countries. It has been found in several studies (Bekaroo et al., 2016; Lennerfors et al., 2015; Majeed, 2018) that the growth in ICT use over the past three decades has had a severe influence on the environment, with a multiplier effect on society.

Bincy and Vasudevan (2023) found that there was limited knowledge of environmentally friendly practices among library professionals at the University of Calicut in India. Their study further shows that these professionals had a positive attitude towards environmental sustainability in libraries and there was a positive relationship between their awareness of environmental issues and green library practices. Townsend (2014) reveals that libraries are motivated to create awareness about environmental sustainability among their users. Ren and Yang (2022) found that more than 75% of librarians in Florida had a favourable view of libraries offering information resources and instruction in environmental literacy. The majority of the respondents (roughly 75%) agreed that libraries ought to assist other local groups in raising awareness of the environment. Despite the fact that the majority of libraries in Florida offer information resources on environmental issues, they do not actively promote environmental literacy instruction or engage in community outreach.

Casey et al. (2014) stress that the environmental impact of the construction of new academic libraries should be the utmost concern or priority to ensure environmental sustainability. Meanwhile, Beutelspacher and Meschede (2020) demonstrate that many libraries have books and other media on various subtopics to promote environmental sustainability. The tools used to raise awareness of the subject that were most frequently highlighted were energy meters, and their results show that libraries also provide a number of information programmes. Mathiasson and Jochumsen (2022) establish that librarians and libraries should have a clear motivation to encourage eco-friendly practices and act as change agents with respect to the promotion of the global sustainability agenda.

Kang (2020) reveals that it is important for library management teams to consider the overall impact of their operations and practices on the environment. This is to ensure that libraries improve in the areas of waste production and unnecessary consumption that could be mitigated. Dias (2017) concludes that libraries have a responsibility to the environment, which will only increase in importance as communities’ needs – including their own sense of continuity and the cultural aspect of sustainability – are met. Loach et al. (2017) establish that there is a need to consider sustaining culture instead of intrinsic cultural value, based on its significance for environmental sustainability. Mwanzu et al. (2023) show that Kenyan libraries have taken advantage of their understanding of green concepts by adopting and putting into practice green initiatives, as well as by developing strategies to improve green libraries and advance environmental sustainability.

Economic sustainability practices in libraries

Several studies have shown that economic issues among academic libraries in developing countries are not uncommon (Iqbal et al., 2023; Ogunbodede and Wiche, 2022). Reduced staffing, the promotion of competitive assets, a focus on lower content costs, support for internalization, more demanding students and allowing digital fluency are some of the effects of economic issues in libraries (Cox, 2021). The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the proliferation of economic sustainability in libraries. For instance, the issue of resource-sharing – a critical element of academic library sustainability – has been negatively influenced by factors such as staff shortages, limited access to crucial technology and budget cuts, as well as the temporary closure of several institutions in the USA (Machovec, 2020). Ogunbodede and Wiche (2022) explain the importance of funding for academic libraries so as to provide effective online education in the era of the pandemic in Nigeria.

Tribelhorn (2023) reveals that more than half (54%) of the respondents in a survey believed that libraries in the USA are economically sustainable. The economically viable practices in libraries include water reduction, recycling and paper reduction schemes; refillable water stations; reducing lighting and energy consumption; college-funded free use of local public transportation for employees and students; the creation of energy, emission and water reduction master plans; the acquisition of licenses for unlimited user access; and the provision of secure and covered parking for library users. Shah et al. (2015) corroborate that the recycling of waste materials, reusing water and utilizing energy-efficient lighting systems positively contributes to the economic viability of libraries. Mwanzu et al. (2023) found that the success of green library initiatives is negatively impacted by ignoring stakeholders such as library users, for whom the need for green practices is crucial.

Missingham (2021) notes that while an economic return on investment concerns economic perspectives, library and information science concerns itself with the ‘value in use’ of library resources. Singh and Dixit (2021) reveal that only half of the libraries in Lucknow, India, were adopting alternative energy sources in their libraries. Casey et al. (2014) show that economic sustainability is crucial for the sustainable future of the provision of information services in libraries. They recommend that the design and implementation of green libraries in academic libraries should consider the overall impact on the libraries’ communities in order to demonstrate their values. This finding is corroborated by Chowdhury (2014) in a study of sustainability practices in digital libraries. This indicates that carrying out green library practices should be intentional and well planned (Premarathne and Bandara, 2019).

The assessment of academic libraries is based on their value with respect to fulfilling the needs of their users, which may be viewed from the perspectives of economic feasibility and social value (Mashroofa, 2022). Charney (2014) reveals that almost half (47%) of the librarians at the University of Massachusetts Amherst had created general sustainability guides and adopted economic practices. Kang (2020) demonstrates that the pursuit of economic development was one of the top priorities for Chinese library management teams. The study concludes that this has created fresh opportunities for studying economic sustainability. Mojapelo and Modiba (2021) conclude that academic libraries can ensure economic sustainability through their information services and role-playing, ensuring the provision of support for impact-based research that will address economic challenges in the community.

Social sustainability practices in libraries

The incorporation of socially responsible practices into the library and information science curriculum indicates the significance of ensuring socially conscious academic libraries (Jankowska et al., 2014). Tribelhorn (2023) reveals that more than half (64%) of academic librarians in the USA acknowledged that library practices in their academic libraries were socially equitable. The study shows that practices included the professional development of all library employees; promoting diversity; updating accessibility in both the physical and online library environments; waiving fines for the late return of library-owned materials; and offering Internet connectivity through hotspots. Akpom et al. (2020) show that librarians in the South East and South South regions of Nigeria had a positive attitude towards corporate social responsibility. Adeyemi et al. (2024) show that social support, social change and sociocultural activities were all carried out by selected public libraries in North Central and South West Nigeria.

Cox (2021) reveals that academic libraries engage in a number of socially responsible practices, such as supporting reproducible research, addressing issues with new user support, well-being initiatives, equity (with an emphasis on open access), staff and collection diversity, and changing user bases. Šimić et al. (2018) show that academic libraries engage in social responsibility practices such as including corporate social responsibility in the strategic documents of the library and higher education institution to which it belongs; adhering to sustainability and environmental protection principles and relations with the environment and local community; improving the working environment in the library and higher education institution; and engaging in community service. It was found in another study that Australian academic libraries provide value to stakeholders, including and, at the same time, transcending social benefits (Missingham, 2021).

Social responsibility has been viewed as social justice for people in a community (Shawa, 2020). The pursuance of social justice in communities has been advocated and considered as the future of academic libraries (Morales et al., 2014). It has been concluded that social justice is further divided into two main types of contribution: indirect action (i.e. the measures required to make change possible) and direct action (i.e. particular processes, procedures and policies to achieve change; Winberry and Bishop, 2021). Gibson et al. (2017) note that neutrality should only be exhibited by libraries when a community is not experiencing a crisis. Vincent (2012). corroborate that social justice and libraries are intertwined as librarians must keep fighting for the vital role that libraries can play in promoting social justice in a community.

Conscience-driven libraries and librarians should strive to offer their users useful information services. For instance, encouraging good reading habits among library users can assist in increasing the social capital of libraries (Kelly, 2023). Fong et al. (2020) found that, at the University of Hong Kong, low social proof is associated with the dearth of user interaction and promotion while low satisfaction with social media contents may lead to low social capital. Leung et al. (2022) show that academic libraries are learning environments; however, this alone does not determine their social worth or capital. Wojciechowska (2023) reveals that her respondents frequently underestimated the value of what academic libraries contribute to their communities. Her results further show that academic librarians had smaller social networks and a slightly lower level of personal social capital and trust than public librarians.

Wojciechowska (2021) shows some connections between public libraries and their communities; with services that address current societal demands, public libraries can operate as cornerstones by integrating, energizing and engaging their local communities. However, this calls for a specific strategy to be used by staff and governing bodies, as well as physical resources and infrastructure. Meanwhile, lower levels of social capital have been linked to detrimental consequences for both individuals and society as a whole. Academic libraries are well positioned to increase their users’ social capital, which will improve engagement, retention and success beyond graduation (Ramsey, 2016). Schlak (2015) discovered that social capital is influenced by shared commitment, inter-relational dynamics and network positionality.

Baji et al. (2017) found that the ‘library as a place’ component and the ‘impact of library services’ dimension had a significant impact on the ‘structural’ and ‘cognitive’ dimensions of social capital, respectively. All of the social capital dimensions demonstrated a strong correlation with the ‘library as a place’ attribute. Griffis and Johnson (2014) show that rural public libraries hold significant potential for generating social capital, but their influence is redundant due to the overlap of social networks in these areas. Additionally, many of the techniques used by libraries to foster a sense of inclusion and social cohesion among library users might unintentionally lead to exclusion. Khoir et al. (2017) reveal that the use of libraries can elicit social capital that enhances users’ settling in a community or society. However, a causal relationship between library use and social capital is not established in this study.

Challenges encountered by libraries in green library practices

In the course of engaging in green library practices, academic libraries may be faced with different challenges that may hamper the effective implementation of eco-friendly practices. Similarly, there are other factors that may hinder the adoption of some eco-friendly practices. Warnasooriya (2018) reveals that there is a general increase in the amount of space and furniture set aside for print materials, and a rise in carbon emissions caused by the usage of computers and server equipment for library automation, as well as a lack of staff awareness regarding green libraries. Khalid et al. (2021) show that the obstacles to implementing green library practices include a lack of sustainable strategies; a lack of sustainable education in the library and information science curriculum, operations, services and building designs; and significant energy consumption as a result of libraries’ extended operating hours. These studies (Khalid et al., 2021; Warnasooriya, 2018) show that the increasing adoption and use of ICT in libraries leaves a significant carbon footprint.

Pandey (2022) found that some of the difficulties faced by Indian libraries when implementing green library practices include unfavourable weather conditions for patrons, particularly during the dry and hot season; small windows, which can result in increased energy use during library hours; and a lack of staff members with sufficient knowledge of green practices. Meanwhile, a study conducted in Pakistan shows that the challenges faced by university libraries include a lack of knowledge about green libraries and practices; a lack of green library policies and technologies for a paperless environment; low awareness regarding the use of natural building materials and biodegradable products; low awareness regarding the use of natural and renewable energy sources; and a lack of commitment by librarians and management teams (Asim and Ahmad, 2022). Qutab et al. (2016) reveal that, in regard to green library practices in Asian countries, there are no standards, guidelines, national policies and frameworks. Moreover, there is a lack of awareness about local resources and their relevance to climate change, and inadequate research and professional support, education and training for library professionals.

Mwanzu et al. (2023) show that most of the challenges faced in the implementation of green library practices are systemic. Singh and Dixit (2021) reveal that an inadequate budget, the nonchalant attitude of library staff, the lack of trained staff, and little awareness of guidelines and standards are the challenges faced by university libraries in Lucknow, India. Manna and De Sarkar (2022) reveal that the lack of sustainability guidelines, the use of technology that has a negative impact on the environment, the installation of modern electrical systems and electronics that increase the carbon footprint, the lack of equipment to measure the carbon emissions of libraries, and the management of the library space are the main challenges libraries faced when implementing green library practices. Chewe and Banda (2021) found that the challenges faced by Zambian libraries in the implementation of green library measures include the absence of a policy framework, an insufficient budget, a lack of government support and librarians’ apathy, among other factors.

Mwanzu (2022) found that the challenges faced in Kenya include the absence of clear rules and strategic plans to guide implementation, the organizational culture, a lack of enthusiasm from library users and management, insufficient financial facilitation, and a lack of awareness and comprehension of the green idea. Drawing from the findings of the different studies, it can be concluded that the common challenges faced by libraries in the implementation of green library practices are varying and consistent. These challenges include the adoption of ICT in libraries, the lack of formal guidelines or frameworks, little awareness of green library practices among library stakeholders, a lack of knowledge about green library practices among library professionals, and lethargy on the part of library management teams/directors and librarians.

Methodology

An exploratory research design was adopted for this study. This design was considered appropriate since it involves exploring a novel area where there is no reality of the phenomenon under study (Saunders et al., 2016; Sreejesh et al., 2014). Meanwhile, a multiple case-study approach was also adopted since it allows the selection of more than one case in the investigation of a particular phenomenon (Harrison et al., 2017). The cases in this study are the three libraries in Nigeria. Drawing from the study’s scope, the population comprises all the academic librarians at the University of Ilorin (23), Kwara State University, Malete (15), and Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin (7). The total population of the study is 45 librarians. A purposive sampling technique (non-probabilistic sampling) was adopted to select participants who served the study’s purpose (Creswell, 2009; Stratton, 2021). Hence, a total of 18 librarians from the three selected universities participated in the study. The librarians were recruited through reaching the right audience and liaising with the heads of the different libraries. All of the professional librarians in the selected academic libraries participated in the study. The remaining 27 were para-professionals and hence could not participate in the study.

Interviews were adopted as the instrument for data collection. The interviews were conducted face-to-face in the various offices of the participants by some of the authors (Precious Oladayiye, Ayomide Odunayo, Bukola Omolokun, Eniola Fakorede and Isaac Olayinka), while the coding of the data was carried out by Ismail Adeyemi and Precious Oladayiye. A structured interview technique was adopted, and the interview guide was prepared prior the interview sessions. To ensure credibility and trustworthiness, the interview sessions with the 18 participants were audio-recorded and saved on a CD-ROM. Line-by-line coding was carried out to ensure rigour in the data analysis. Member checking was adopted to ensure language correctness and appropriateness (Candela, 2019; Thomas, 2017). The researchers gave the transcripts to the 18 participants for perusal to ensure accuracy, but only 10 gave any feedback.

The participants were informed that the interview sessions were to be recorded. Cumulatively, the interview sessions lasted 2 hours 47 minutes. The method of data analysis used was a priori thematic analysis, which concerns the extraction of data from interview transcripts based on predetermined themes. Meanwhile, Braun and Clarke’s (2006) framework for thematic analysis was adopted in the analysis of the collected data. This framework has six elements: familiarizing oneself with the collected data; extracting codes from the data; generating themes from the codes; reviewing the themes; defining and naming the themes; and report writing. The interview transcripts were read repeatedly to ensure that the analyst was conversant with the content, which guided the extraction of the codes. Related codes were categorized under the different predetermined themes, which are all of the elements of green library practice as provided by the American Library Association.

Results

A total of 562 codes were extracted from the transcripts and they were analysed under four themes, which were predetermined based on the study’s research questions. Table 1 shows the demographic details of the 18 participants.

Table 1.

Participants’ codes and demographic information.

Code	Position	Years of experience
Participant 1	Senior librarian	10
Participant 2	Senior library supervisor	12
Participant 3	Library assistant	5
Participant 4	Library systems analyst	5
Participant 5	Senior librarian	14
Participant 6	Senior librarian	13
Participant 7	Senior librarian	16
Participant 8	Assistant librarian	3
Participant 9	Principal librarian	30
Participant 10	Chief library officer	30
Participant 11	Librarian I	9
Participant 12	Chief library officer	30
Participant 13	Librarian II	13
Participant 14	Librarian	7
Participant 15	Assistant librarian	3
Participant 16	Senior librarian	15
Participant 17	Librarian II	7
Participant 18	Senior librarian	15

The average number of years of experience of the 18 participants was 11 years, 6 months. This indicates that the participants had a sufficient number of years of experience to provide credible information on the subject of green library practices. Six (33.3%) were senior librarians, which had the highest representation among the ranks and an average of 14 years of experience. There was only one (5.6%) senior library supervisor, librarian, library assistant, Librarian I, principal librarian and library systems analyst. There were two (11.1%) chief library officers, Librarian IIs and assistant librarians.

Data analysis of the research questions

The findings of the study show that the majority of the participants noted that they adhered to green library practices in their libraries. However, some remarked that there was an unwritten policy guiding their adherence to green library practices: ‘Not written document but there is an unwritten policy towards green library practices’ (Participant 4).

Environmental sustainability practices

The findings of the study show that the libraries fumigated the library environment periodically to preserve the library materials. This is evident in one of the three selected libraries: ‘The library fumigates the library [environment] if they find any traces of rodents or insects that might damage the books or cause harm to the users and the library will be closed for two days’ (Participant 10).

The results of the study show that the majority of the participants did not use a generating set and other carbon-producing equipment. However, some of the libraries used a generating set, but not frequently: ‘We use a generating set, but not frequently’ (Participant 17). Furthermore, the findings highlight that all the participants agreed that their libraries adopted and used ICTs in the course of information service provision: ‘Very high [use of ICTs] in the sense that 90% of everything we do in the library is ICT-compliant’ (Participant 5).

The evidence from the data indicates that some of the libraries did not participate in any activities that would lead to environmental degradation. This is evident from the responses of the majority of the participants: ‘We are not involved in any activity that will destroy our environment’ (Participant 16). It was indicated in the data that the selected libraries engaged in the planting of trees to improve the library surroundings, make the library conducive, and support green library practices. In fact, evidence emerged from the data that some of the libraries planted trees to attract users and provide shade from the sun:

Yes [we plant trees] to make the library conducive. (Participant 4)

Yes [we plant trees] for sun shade but now it’s causing a problem because people throw sticks and stones, so it damages the windscreens of staff who park their cars outside. (Participant 18)

Economic sustainability practices

The findings reveal that all of the participating libraries engaged in resource-sharing through inter-library loans and cooperative resource-sharing with institutions in the Ilorin municipality and beyond: ‘Yes, we share resources with the University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife and other libraries, and they call it cooperative resource-sharing’ (Participant 18).

There is evidence from the collected data that some of the selected libraries recycled paper at times, but did not engage in the recycling of water. Moreover, it emanated from the data that all of the selected libraries engaged in the recycling of paper, but rarely recycled water: ‘We recycle paper at times and usually we recycle water as well’ (Participant 1). Also, it was revealed that all of the selected libraries used energy-efficient light bulbs and equipment, and there was a high level of energy consumption in some of the libraries: ‘Yes, they make use of LED [light-emitting diodes], which conserves energy’ (Participant 6).

Social sustainability practices

Based on the data collected, all of the participants indicated that their libraries offered their users high-quality and valuable services: ‘I believe that we provide effective and efficient services to our users. Hence, I don’t think there is any reason not to feel valuable to them’ (Participant 2). Meanwhile, the majority of the participants were unwilling to respond to the question on their libraries’ participation in corporate social responsibility practices. However, some noted that their libraries participated in corporate social responsibility practices: ‘Yes, we engage in corporate social responsibility practices’ (Participant 14).

The evidence from the data suggests that the majority of the respondents agreed that their libraries participated in social justice initiatives: ‘We engage in social justice’ (Participant 1). Moreover, it was revealed that the libraries provided information (pamphlets) to support social justice. Similarly, it is evident from the data that none of the libraries participated in the End SARS (Special Anti-Robbery Squad) social movement. It was shown that some of the selected libraries abstained from this based on the creed of the university: ‘This is [an] Islamic university so anything about that [End SARS], Al-Hikmah University doesn’t participate in that’ (Participant 4).

The data shows that the majority of the participants reported that their libraries had a social media presence and these social media accounts were used for the provision of reference services to their users: ‘Yes, in terms of providing reference services’ (Participant 4). This was to enhance prompt and up-to-date information for users, which indicates that the social media accounts were used often, as narrated by one of the participants. Aside from the provision of information, it was shown in the data that the selected libraries provided recreational support, research support, Internet facilities, learning support and other social services: ‘There are many social services they provide for them. Users can stay outside to make use of the library Wi-Fi; they can stay at home to acquire information from the library’ (Participant 11).

Challenges encountered in green library practices

In the course of adhering to green library practices, the selected libraries were faced with various challenges. The challenges were different depending on the area of the themes – namely, environmental sustainability, economic sustainability and social sustainability. It was revealed that other libraries involved in resource-sharing were sometimes not fulfilling their responsibilities in the mandate: ‘With other libraries, let say in collaborating with other libraries hmmm though I don’t think there used to be more turn up’ (Participant 2). Moreover, there were issues with networks, inadequate funds to subscribe to databases, distance barriers, management’s poor attitude towards green practices, the cost of transportation, and the erratic power supply to attend to users from other libraries: ‘Funds are not always there. The issue [with funds] is huge – for example, the subscription to databases is very expensive. Secondly, the maintenance culture is also a problem and lastly changes in administration’ (Participant 13).

Meanwhile, it was revealed that the major challenge for eco-friendly practices was the issue of finance: ‘Finance is the major issue in eco-friendly practices’ (Participant 5). Similarly, finance was the chief challenge faced in the maintenance of ICT equipment and/or tools in the selected libraries. Other challenges mentioned by the participants included a high-voltage power supply, humid weather conditions and poor network facilities: ‘Challenges of maintaining ICT equipment include finance, bad network and high-power supply’ (Participant 6).

It was revealed that another challenge was that the solar energy system in some of the libraries did not cover all of the library units. This indicates that some of the library staff were not able to use the system: ‘When there’s no light, they use the solar system, but to some extent, and it is not installed in every area in the library’ (Participant 11).

Discussion

The results of this study show that the majority of the academic libraries adhered to green library practices. The findings show that the libraries fumigated the library environment periodically to preserve the library materials. The use of toxic chemicals for fumigation may have dire consequences on the library environment, does not support green practices and may endanger library users’ health. This problem can be addressed by ensuring that libraries are fumigated when users are not present. Perhaps academic libraries can consider notifying users in advance to ensure that they are aware of planned fumigation. Jones and Wong (2016) found that the Chinese University of Hong Kong Library was considered excellent by its users owing to the control of the indoor air quality, such as by releasing chemicals into the air. This suggests that effective indoor air control can help enhance users’ perceptions of libraries. The study reveals that most of the participants’ libraries did not use a generating set or other carbon-producing equipment. This practice is consistent with the findings of Tribelhorn (2023) that libraries in the USA engage in environmentally sound practices.

Furthermore, the results of the study show that the libraries adopted and used ICTs. Meanwhile, it has been shown in previous studies (Anasi et al., 2018; Majeed, 2018) that the adoption and use of ICTs in academic libraries negatively affects environmental sustainability. The advancement of these ICT tools has a significant effect on the carbon footprint of libraries. This shows that academic libraries leave an appreciable carbon footprint. The study’s findings show that the libraries did not participate in any activities that would lead to environmental degradation. This indicates that academic libraries engaged in the planting of trees to beautify the library, make the library a participants believe that a conducive environment supports green library practices. The results show that some of the libraries planted trees to attract users and provide shade from the sun. Mwanzu et al. (2023) show that Kenyan libraries adopt green initiatives to promote green library practices.

The results indicate that the academic libraries engaged in resource-sharing with sister libraries in their municipality through inter-library cooperation. Machovec (2020) reveals that the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increased proliferation in economic sustainability in terms of resource-sharing. The findings also show that some academic libraries recycled paper at times but did not engage in the recycling of water. Tribelhorn (2023) shows that more than half of US libraries are economically sustainable with respect to recycling programmes and paper reduction. It was revealed that academic libraries used energy-efficient light bulbs and equipment. It was also shown that there was a high level of energy consumption by some of the selected libraries. Tribelhorn (2023) reveals that libraries in the USA are economically sustainable in terms of lighting and energy consumption.

The results of this study show that the academic libraries provided the needed value to their users but only a few of the libraries participated in corporate social responsibility practices. This is consistent with the findings of previous studies (Akpom et al., 2020; Šimić et al., 2018) that corporate social responsibility is crucial in the social responsibility practices of libraries. The findings of the study show that the academic libraries participated in social justice initiatives. This is similar to the findings of previous studies (e.g. Winberry and Bishop, 2021) that libraries engaged in social justice in their immediate community. The study also shows that none of the academic libraries participated in the End SARS social movement. The results show that the majority of the academic libraries had a social media presence, which they used for the provision of information to their users. Meanwhile, Fong et al. (2020) show that the University of Hong Kong used social media for social capital and social proof. The findings show that the academic libraries provided recreational support, research support, Internet facilities, learning support and other social services. This is supported by the findings of Mojapelo and Modiba (2021) that academic libraries provide research support for impact-based research.

The results show that the challenges that the academic libraries faced in resource-sharing included the attitude of university librarians in fulfilling their mandate, network challenges, inadequate funds to subscribe to databases, distance barriers, management’s poor attitude towards green practices, the cost of transportation, and the erratic power supply to serve users from other libraries. It was also shown that finance was the main challenge with eco-friendly practices. These findings are similar to those of Chewe and Banda (2021) with regard to the challenges faced by Zambian libraries in the implementation of green libraries. Also, the challenges in the maintenance of ICT tools in the academic libraries included a high-voltage power supply, humid weather conditions and poor Internet facilities. Singh and Dixit (2021) reveal that inadequate budgets and the indifferent attitude of library staff are challenges faced by university libraries in Lucknow, India. The results show that the challenge faced in the use of solar energy systems was that some of the library units were not able to use the systems.

Conclusion

The study concludes that the academic libraries engaged in the fumigation of the library environment to ensure the preservation of library materials. However, this may contaminate the air for library users. Also, the high level of ICT adoption and usage among the academic libraries means that they leave a large carbon footprint. The academic libraries engaged in the planting of trees, which enhanced their environmental sustainability. The study establishes that the academic libraries engaged in resource-sharing, the recycling of paper and water resources, and the use of energy-efficient light bulbs and equipment. The study recognizes that academic libraries have value for their users and provide services for social justice. Meanwhile, the Nigerian academic libraries did not participate in the End SARS social movement. Also, they provided recreational support, research support, Internet facilities, learning support and other social services. The challenges faced by the Nigerian academic libraries in resource-sharing included the attitude of university librarians in fulfilling their mandate, inadequate funds to subscribe to databases, management’s poor attitude and the erratic power supply. Also, it was established that the challenge faced in the usage of solar systems was that some of the library units were not able to use the systems.

Implications

An implication of the study findings for the heads of academic libraries is that there is a need to formulate policies that will enhance green library practices. What transpires is the need for a policy to ensure that there is a structured and formalized framework to enhance green library practices. Such a policy should address issues concerning how and when to fumigate libraries, plans regarding resource-sharing with other academic libraries, a strategy with respect to the adoption and use of ICT equipment, and a plan concerning when to switch on generating sets. Putting in place this policy will enhance green library practices as it will guide librarians on sustainable library practices. Furthermore, the findings of this study imply that library management teams need to be supportive in the provision of adequate resources and facilities for subscription to databases. This will help enhance collaboration with other academic libraries. Theoretically, it has been shown that there is a nexus between improving the appearance of a library and environmental sustainability. Theoretical postulations should consider improving the appearance of libraries as an intervening variable in environmental sustainability.

Recommendations

The following are the recommendations of the study, which are offered based on the study’s findings:

Academic libraries should ensure that fumigation is carried out when students are on holiday, so that they do not have to experience poor air conditions.

Library management teams and librarians should ensure the adoption of energy-friendly ICT tools so as to reduce the adoption and use of energy-consuming tools.

Academic libraries should prioritize resource-sharing to ensure economic sustainability.

Academic libraries should use their social media presence to enhance their social capital and social proof.

University management teams should provide adequate funding to promote eco-friendly practices in academic libraries.

Libraries should provide solar power to all of their library units to enhance environmentally conscious practices.

Footnotes

Declaration of conflicting interests

The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship and/or publication of this article.

Funding

The authors received no financial support for the research, authorship and/or publication of this article.

ORCID iD

Ismail Olatunji Adeyemi

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