COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS BETWEEN LIBRARIANS AND HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS IN ADVANCING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN HEALTH IN NORTH-EAST NIGERIA

Abstract

This study explores the collaborative efforts between librarians and healthcare professionals in

promoting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to health in North-East Nigeria.

With a focus on enhancing health literacy and access to healthcare information, the research

assesses the current level of collaboration, contributions of library services, and prevailing

challenges. A quantitative research design was adopted, targeting a population of 1,284

librarians and healthcare professionals, from which a sample of 305 was selected using simple

random sampling. Data were collected through survey questionnaires and analysed using

SPSS. Findings revealed a moderate level of collaboration, with participants acknowledging

the importance of joint health literacy programs, though formal partnerships and active

community engagements were still limited. Library services were found to contribute

meaningfully to healthcare information access, especially in underserved communities,

through resources, mobile libraries, and awareness programs. However, challenges such as

inadequate funding, limited digital literacy, and poor communication between sectors hindered

stronger partnerships. The study underscores the potential of integrating digital tools and

training to enhance health education and outreach. Recommendations include fostering

formalized partnerships, offering joint capacity-building initiatives, and improving

infrastructure for both libraries and healthcare providers. This study contributes to the discourse

on interprofessional collaboration in achieving SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and

highlights the role of libraries in public health promotion. It advocates for strengthened

librarian-healthcare professional alliances to advance sustainable healthcare practices in

marginalized areas of North-East Nigeria.