ZOD Libraries goes online

DEVELOPMENT

By Kokumo Goodie, Lagos, Nigeria

Zaccheus Onumba Dibiaezue Memorial Libraries (ZODML), a not-for-profit organization set up in memory of Z.O Dibiaezue, at the weekend in Lagos, launched its online library and website (www.zodml.org) designed to give students and readers of all ages throughout Nigeria and across the globe access to resources to educate themselves.

The launch of the online library is central to the achievement of ZODML’s mission of providing channels through which people may acquire knowledge and improve their learning by accessing the information and learning tools offered by the library.

Speaking at the launch of the online library, Ifeoma Esiri, co-Chair and member of ZODML’s Board of Trustees, said that ZODML’s vision is a Nigeria in which everyone has access to resources for personal development and growth.

“At the core of this project is self-learning, which can only be possible if there is free access to educational resources. Now with the launch of our website, www.zodml.com, students and readers all over Nigeria and beyond can access our online library and also take advantage of the various learning tools that the website has.”

Esiri announced a bi-monthly essay competition for secondary school students as part of activities to project and launch the website. Students will be required to write short essays on their learning process in their various schools. The winning entry will win a net book and a visit to Google Nigeria to experience a day of work at the search engine company.

Also speaking at the launch, Ayo Obe, another ZODML trustee and a civil rights crusader, lamented the dearth of good libraries where students can just go and have a good read in Nigeria.

The launch of ZODML’s webpage (www.zodml.org) will not only make it easier for students and everyone to borrow books from the library online but will also help students to learn how to use the internet for constructive activities and learning.

Features of the website include a catalogue of past question papers for secondary students from notable examination bodies like the West African Examinations Council, (WAEC), National Examinations Council (NECO) and Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), journals and articles, a career guide section and a special collection of writing by Nigerians living in Nigeria and the diaspora.

The website seeks to be ‘Nigeria-centric’, giving books and novels written by Nigerian authors centre stage, to inspire writing skills in Nigerian students.