Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Over the past decade, the relationship between information literacy training and library patronage has become a subject of considerable debate among scholars and industry practitioners alike, particularly within the context of Lagos State where operating conditions differ markedly from more developed markets.

Lagos State presents a useful setting for examining this relationship precisely because the conditions there — structural, regulatory, and behavioural — differ from those typically assumed in the broader literature, most of which draws on evidence from more developed economies.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

While information literacy training is widely discussed in policy and industry circles, empirical evidence on its actual effect on library patronage within Lagos State remains sparse and, in places, contradictory. This lack of localized, rigorous evidence makes it difficult for decision-makers to know with confidence whether current approaches to information literacy training are helping or hindering library patronage — a gap this study sets out to close.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To examine the effect of Information Literacy Training on library patronage in Lagos State.
2. To assess the extent to which information literacy training influences library patronage within the study area.
3. To identify the challenges associated with information literacy training in relation to library patronage.
4. To recommend strategies for optimizing information literacy training in order to improve library patronage.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of information literacy training on library patronage in Lagos State?
2. To what extent does information literacy training influence library patronage within the study area?
3. What challenges are associated with information literacy training in relation to library patronage?
4. What strategies can be adopted to optimize information literacy training in order to improve library patronage?

1.5 Significance of the Study

Beyond its academic contribution to the field of library and information science, this study has practical value for management teams within Lagos State seeking to understand how information literacy training translates into measurable outcomes around library patronage. It is equally useful to students and future researchers looking for a localized empirical reference on this relationship.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study is limited to an examination of Information Literacy Training and its relationship with library patronage within the context of Lagos State. It reflects a clearly defined scope of analysis and relies on data and perspectives available within that scope; generalizing the findings beyond this specific context should therefore be done with appropriate caution.