ACCESSIBILITY OF LIBRARY SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH VISUAL AND HEARING IMPAIRMENTS: EVIDENCE FROM THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF LAFIA

Abstract

This study examined the accessibility of library resources and services for students with visual and

hearing impairments in the Department of Special Needs and Rehabilitation Sciences at the Federal

University of Lafia, Nasarawa State. The study sought to examine the availability of library resources

and services for students with visual and hearing impairments and students' perceptions of their

adequacy. The population consisted of forty-two (42) students with visual and hearing impairments

in the Department of Special Needs and Rehabilitation Sciences at the Federal University of Lafia.

A total enumeration technique was employed, and data were collected using a structured

questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that the

availability of library resources and services was largely limited to basic provisions, with relatively

limited access to specialized resources. Participants also perceived the available resources and

services as inadequate, citing the absence of appropriate reading materials, insufficiently inclusive

services, inadequate staff support, and a lack of specialized personnel. The study concludes that

improving access to information for students with visual and hearing impairments requires more

than expanding library resources; it also requires institutional commitment to inclusive policies,

accessible information resources, assistive technologies, and staff capacity building. The study

therefore recommends strengthening accessibility policies, expanding accessible information

resources and assistive technologies, and providing regular professional development for library

personnel to promote equitable access to information in higher education.