Availability and use of information materials by persons with visual impairment in Nigeria

Information materials for the visually impaired must be transcribed into alternative format before they are made available for use. The use of information materials in alternative format by the visually impaired is limited by availability. The study investigates the availability and use of information materials in alternative format by persons with visual impairment in selected libraries in Nigeria. The study is a survey. Fourteen purposively selected libraries were used based on the population of their visually impaired users who make use of alternative formats. Using a stratified proportionate random sampling technique, the chosen libraries were stratified into Non-governmental organizations, public, tertiary institutions and secondary schools. A structured questionnaire and an observation schedule were used for data collection. Out of the 563 copies of questionnaire administered, 401 (71.3%) were successfully completed and used for the study. Result revealed that braille materials (69.9%) and talking books/audio recordings (43.5%) were not readily available in the libraries. Large prints are not available (79.3%). Braille materials had high level of utilization (x=4.44; SD=1.21). Information material availability had significant positive relationship with use (r=0.224; p<0.05). Information materials availability in the libraries cannot ensure and sustain adequate utilisation levels. The study recommends increased transcription, balanced collection of alternative formats and resource sharing.