National Librarian Prof. Chinwe Veronica Anunobi Named for GLLPS Conferment by IHS-BiRD & L
Abuja, Nigeria — The Institute for Historical Studies, Biographical Research, Documentation and Legacy (IHS-BiRD & L) has named Professor Chinwe Veronica Anunobi, National Librarian and Chief Executive Officer of the National Library of Nigeria, for conferment of the Grand Legacy Laureate of Public Service (GLLPS) in recognition of her contributions to digital library modernization, preservation of documentary heritage, literacy advocacy, and institutional transformation within Nigeria’s national knowledge infrastructure.
The decision follows a comprehensive institutional assessment conducted in accordance with the Institute’s honours framework, which evaluates prospective recipients on the basis of documented leadership, measurable institutional impact, administrative reform, and sustained contributions to national development and preservation of public knowledge systems.
Professor Anunobi, a scholar and information management professional, has been recognised for leading a broad modernization agenda within the National Library of Nigeria since her assumption of office as National Librarian and Chief Executive Officer in September 2021.
The Institute noted that under her leadership, the National Library intensified efforts toward digital transformation and preservation of Nigeria’s documentary heritage through large-scale digitization initiatives, deployment of virtual library systems, and expansion of technology-driven access to research and information resources.
Among the initiatives referenced by the Institute are the digitization of over 6,000 vulnerable library materials for conservation and multiple-user accessibility, the deployment of the National Repository of Nigeria (NRN) with over 1,500 digitized resources, and the development of a Virtual Library Dashboard integrating library operations and access to open-access journals and monographs.
The Institute further highlighted the adoption of modern information organization systems such as CLASS WEB and OPAC technologies, enhancement of the National Library’s digital platforms, and deployment of STARLINK internet infrastructure to improve access to online resources and digital services.
In addition to institutional modernization, the Institute referenced her administration’s expansion of literacy and readership promotion initiatives across Nigeria, including annual children’s summer camps, nationwide Readership Promotion Campaigns (RPC), and targeted literacy outreach programmes for children in rural and underserved communities.
The Institute also acknowledged her efforts in strengthening research accessibility through subscription to international multidisciplinary databases including ProQuest, EBSCOhost, and Bold Scholar databases, alongside partnerships with organizations such as American Space, NITDA, and technology-focused institutions aimed at improving digital competencies and preparing library personnel for emerging technological developments, including Artificial Intelligence-driven information systems.
According to the Institute, Professor Anunobi’s administration has contributed toward repositioning the National Library of Nigeria as a more technologically adaptive and publicly engaged national knowledge institution aligned with evolving global standards of librarianship practice.
Speaking on the development, the Institute stated that the Grand Legacy Laureate of Public Service recognises individuals whose leadership demonstrates measurable institutional contribution, preservation-focused stewardship, and enduring public value.
“Professor Chinwe Veronica Anunobi’s record reflects a structured commitment to institutional modernization, preservation of documentary heritage, literacy advancement, and expansion of public access to knowledge,” the Institute stated. “Her ongoing leadership within the National Library of Nigeria represents a significant contribution to strengthening Nigeria’s knowledge infrastructure and safeguarding national memory within an evolving digital era.”
The Institute further noted that library and archival leadership frequently remain underrepresented within mainstream public recognition despite their foundational importance to education, research, historical preservation, and national development.
The Grand Legacy Laureate of Public Service (GLLPS) is the highest institutional distinction conferred by IHS-BiRD & L and is reserved for individuals whose documented record reflects exceptional public service, institutional leadership, and measurable contribution to national development and preservation of historical and intellectual heritage.
