BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE, EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES: THE ROLE OF INFORMATION PROFESSIONALS IN ADVANCING SOCIAL JUSTICE IN DEVELOPING CONTEXTS

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dc.contributor.authorKABIRU, Muhammed Abdullahi
dc.contributor.authorATIKU, Abdulkadir
dc.contributor.authorIBRAHIM, Hauwa Zanchita
dc.contributor.authorALIYU, Fatima
dc.date.accessioned2026-07-29T05:17:26Z
dc.date.available2026-07-29T05:17:26Z
dc.date.issued2026
dc.descriptionJournal of Library and Information Management Forum
dc.description.abstractThe persistent digital divide remains a major barrier to equitable access to education, healthcare, employment, civic participation, and socio-economic opportunities in many developing countries. This opinion paper examines the critical role of information professionals, particularly librarians, in bridging digital inequalities and advancing social justice through inclusive information services. Drawing on existing literature and conceptual perspectives, the paper explores the multidimensional nature of the digital divide and its implications for community empowerment and sustainable social development. It highlights the contributions of information professionals in providing equitable access to information and communication technologies, promoting digital literacy, advocating for inclusive information policies, supporting marginalised populations, and fostering civic engagement. The paper further discusses the challenges limiting the effectiveness of information professionals, including inadequate funding, weak ICT infrastructure, limited professional capacity, policy constraints, and socio-cultural barriers. It argues that information professionals have evolved beyond their traditional custodial roles to become strategic agents of digital inclusion, community development, and social transformation. To strengthen their contributions, the paper proposes strategic actions centred on increased investment in library and digital infrastructure, continuous professional development, and multi-sectoral collaboration among governments, educational institutions, civil society organisations, and development partners. The paper concludes that bridging the digital divide is both a technological and social justice imperative and that empowering information professionals is essential for building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities in developing contexts
dc.identifier.urihttps://kubanni.abu.edu.ng/123456789/13257
dc.language.isoen
dc.publisherLibrary and Information Management Forum Vol. 28. No. 1 2026
dc.titleBRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE, EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES: THE ROLE OF INFORMATION PROFESSIONALS IN ADVANCING SOCIAL JUSTICE IN DEVELOPING CONTEXTS
dc.typeArticle
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