The paper examined the role of academic libraries in the evolving paradigm shift in teaching methodologies in Nigerian universities as a result of the outbreak of Covid-19. It x-rayed the current global trends in online education and significant roles libraries can play. Responsive library website design and adoption, adoption of blended librarianship model and use of social networks among others were identified as best practices to adopt in order to secure a place for libraries in Nigeria in the face of the eminent change in teaching methodologies post Covid-19. Furthermore, the study considered perceived challenges libraries may be confronted with in deploying relevant ICT infrastructures geared towards transitioning from traditional to online provision of services in support of teaching and learning. The paper recommended dynamism in library service delivery, urgency in the acquisition of new skill sets by academic librarians in Nigeria, while also calling on relevant stakeholders to provide adequate funding for libraries in order to be able to deploy relevant ICT infrastructures needed to adequately support teaching and learning in a virtual environment.

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Academic libraries are increasingly becoming affected by intrusive and disruptive technologies, changing user needs, and alternative information providers who offer similar services as the library. The dilemma of academic libraries is evident, based on the declining support from parent institutions and decreasing patronage. In the face of stiff competition, their response has to be rapid in order to preserve their position. Academic librarians cannot effectively prepare for the future or position themselves until they understand the nature of their competitors and what draws the customers to them. To remain relevant, librarians must re-strategize their marketing techniques using competitive intelligence (CI). The article explores practical application of CI principles and strategies to the marketing mix variables of academic libraries. It identifies competitive strategies that could give library marketing a competitive edge. The article also identifies possible challenges in implementing competitive intelligence strategies in marketing for academic libraries and makes recommendations. The article concludes that it is expedient for academic libraries to adopt competitive intelligence to guide their marketing efforts so as to guarantee the survival and continuous growth of academic libraries.

Girl-child education has become a matter of concern to stakeholders in Nigeria. This study examines the concept of and crucial issues in girl-child education. It identifies socio-cultural patterns, religious misconceptions, poverty, teenage pregnancy and early marriage amongst others as factors militating against the girl-child education. The paper advocates that public and school libraries must begin to play relevant roles and contribute to the eradication of discriminations against women. It outlines the roles public and school libraries must play in order to improve girl-child enrollment in school as well as reduce school drop-out. In order to effectively play their roles, the study suggests that libraries should source for funds from external agencies rather than depend only on their parent institutions/organizations.