NLA flags off Library Week, urges Nigerians to preserve cultural heritage

The Nigerian Library Association (NLA) has announced the commencement of the 2025 Library Week, scheduled to hold from November 17 to 21, with the theme “Libraries for Cultural Heritage.” Speaking at a maiden virtual press conference, the President of the Association, Dr. Lawal Umar, said the theme was strategically chosen to highlight the vital role […]

The Nigerian Library Association (NLA) has announced the commencement of the 2025 Library Week, scheduled to hold from November 17 to 21, with the theme “Libraries for Cultural Heritage.”
Speaking at a maiden virtual press conference, the President of the Association, Dr. Lawal Umar, said the theme was strategically chosen to highlight the vital role libraries play in preserving and promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
“I feel highly honoured and proud to announce the commencement of the celebration of the 2025 Library Week, with the theme Libraries for Cultural Heritage.
“This year’s theme is strategically chosen to illuminate and highlight the indispensable vital role that libraries play in preserving, promoting, documenting, and sharing Nigeria’s rich and multifaceted cultural heritage,” Umar said.
He described cultural heritage as the foundation of Nigeria’s social and economic progress, noting that traditions, religion, values, customs, languages, arts, crafts, and historical knowledge shape the identity and pride of the people.
“Protecting this heritage fosters national unity, enhances understanding, boosts tourism, and encourages creativity and innovation—all of which are vital for economic growth, prosperity, and social harmony,” he added.
Umar called on NLA state chapters, academic, public, school, and special libraries to mobilize members and communities to participate actively in the week by organizing cultural talk shows, seminars, rallies, exhibitions, and guided heritage tours.
He also extended a national invitation to Nigerians, urging them to visit libraries, donate cultural materials, and rediscover the wealth of knowledge preserved within their walls.

The NLA president expressed appreciation to the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her support towards completing the National Library headquarters in Abuja. “Together, we can build Nigeria’s future anchored in the pride of our cultural heritage,” he said.