Group unveils online library to boost learning, reading culture

As part of efforts to boost learning and reading culture, an online library has been unveiled in Lagos.

The Co-founder, Zaccheus Onumba Dibiaezue Memorial Libraries (ZODML), Mrs Ifeoma Esiri, while unveiling the free online library at a press conference in Lagos, said the initiative will aid self-learning among students.

Esiri said the website had over 300,000 online resources, while the physical community library had 2,455,498 resources.

She explained that the work was inspired by the life and legacy of her father, who through self-learning and access to libraries, was able to transform his life and those of others.  

She stated that the initiative was aimed at promoting reading as well as the acquisition of literacy and technological skills, especially among youths. “At ZODML, we seek to accomplish the long-term impact of a Nigerian population that has achieved academic excellence and built a culture that recognises the importance of self-learning and the ability to build, support and enable communities.

“This was why we decided to deepen our commitment by providing free access to digital resources through the online library. The success of the soft launch of zodml.org in November last year, reaffirmed our belief that our platform is needed, and we will continue to build on what we have,” Esiri said.

She said the group is poised to provide free access to digital resources, information and learning tools through which young Nigerians, particularly those attending public universities, can acquire knowledge and thrive in their studies and future careers.

According to her, ZODML currently has a community library, 34 school libraries and 19 libraries in correctional centres across Nigeria.

A beneficiary of ZODML’s library, Janet Abakpa, who is a law student at the University of Ibadan (UI), while sharing her experience with reporters, said she discovered ZODML as a pupil in Ireti Nursery and Primary School, Ikoyi and received a library card after attending one of its programmes.

“Over the years, I have read almost all the books in the children’s section and I’ve greatly benefitted from them. I’ve gained so much and grown so much intellectually, I’ve joined the online library and I am excited about the possibilities it offers for students who, like me, are eager to learn,” Abakpa said.