Exploring Book Trade and Publishing as Pathways to Entrepreneurship and Wealth Creation Among University Librarians in Rivers State

Introduction: This study investigates the role of book trade and publication as sources of entrepreneurship and wealth creation among librarians in Rivers State-owned universities. The study was motivated by the need to diversify librarians’ roles beyond traditional information management towards entrepreneurial activities that enhance personal and institutional growth. The objectives were to identify the purposes, benefits, and challenges associated with book trade and publishing for librarians. Methodology: A descriptive survey research design was adopted, targeting all 44 professional and para-professional librarians from the Central Library of Rivers State University and the Dame Patience Goodluck Jonathan Automated Library of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using simple percentages. Results: The findings revealed that librarians recognize book trade and publishing as viable entrepreneurial ventures, contributing significantly to revenue generation, professional development, and societal impact. Key purposes identified include revenue generation, material improvement, and supporting literacy and reading. Benefits highlighted include enhancing librarians’ professional potential, fostering intrapreneurial spirit, and creating career opportunities in publishing. However, the study also identified challenges such as low awareness of entrepreneurial relevance, restrictive government policies, economic instability, limited funding, and difficulties in generating viable business ideas. Conclusion: The study concluded that while librarians are aware of the entrepreneurial opportunities within book trade and publishing, several barriers hinder their full participation. It recommends integrating entrepreneurship education into librarians’ professional development, reforming policies to support entrepreneurial activities, and encouraging continuous learning in business ideation and financial management to enhance librarians' entrepreneurial capabilities.