DIGITAL INCLUSION AND LIBRARIES IN AFRICA: BRIDGING THE DIVIDE

Abstract

Digital technology has become central to contemporary societal engagement, cutting across high, middle, and low-income populations globally. Existing literature indicates that libraries play a critical role in promoting digital inclusion, particularly among marginalised groups. This study examined the role of African libraries in facilitating digital inclusion, with specific emphasis on Nigerian libraries.Findings reveal that rural and low-income populations are disproportionately affected by digital exclusion, though libraries across Africa are actively addressing this challenge. Countries such as South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Tanzania, and Nigeria are implementing various interventions through national, public, academic, school, and community libraries. These interventions include the provision of internet access, digital resources, structured digital literacy programmes, and online reading platforms.The study concludes that enhancing digital inclusion in Africa requires technological innovation, structural reforms, epistemic justice, and culturally responsive policy development.