ASSESSING THE ROLE 0F LIBRARIANS IN COMBATING HEALTH MISINFORMATION DURING PANDEMICS IN MINNA METROPOLIS

Abstract

The adverse effects of misinformation on societal progress, particularly in the realm of health, are well-known. Librarians, as guardians of information, have vital role in disseminating accurate information to the public. This research paper explores the potential of the field of librarianship in countering health misinformation. The study examines existing literature on the societal role of librarians in combating misinformation. Additionally, interviews were conducted with all librarians from tertiary institutions in Minna metropolis to investigate their roles in disseminating factual information during the Covid-19 outbreak. The research explores the strategies
employed by librarians to combat misinformation, the challenges they faced in this endeavour, and assesses the impact of these strategies on mitigating Covid-19 misinformation. The study delves into both the misinformation encountered by the community and the persisting beliefs in misinformation. Furthermore, it investigates the channels through which communities receive health information. The paper outlines effective initiatives within the Library and Information Systems (LIS) profession, emphasising recommendations for librarians to enhance their role in the digital age and contribute successfully to the field of public health. Seven librarians from all tertiary libraries in the Minna metropolis were interviewed. Additionally, One Hundred (100) residents from ten communities were randomly selected to fill out questionnaires to ascertain the impact tertiary libraries have on misinformation in the communities. Only librarians from health institutions attempted to educate the communities, with little impact felt.