The Vice Chancellor of the Christian Service University (CSU), Professor Sam K. Afrane, has emphasized the need for students to fully utilize the wealth of resources available at the university’s Chapman Library. Speaking at a media engagement as part of the inaugural Library Month celebrations, he described the library as the center of academic work and a critical hub for knowledge acquisition.
The month-long celebration, themed “Beyond the Bookshelves: Exploring New Horizons in Libraries,” ran from March 3 to March 28, 2025. The event aimed to create awareness about the evolving role of libraries in academia, incorporating various activities such as library evangelism, book fairs, fun activities, debates, seminars, and giveaways.
Professor Afrane underscored the importance of taking the library to the students rather than waiting for them to visit the facility. “A library is such an essential resource that if we are not intentional about promoting it, only a few people will benefit from its immense offerings,” he remarked.
He commended the university’s librarian, Vivian Amponsah, and her team for spearheading this innovative initiative, which he believes will foster a deeper engagement between students and library services. Dedicating an entire month to library awareness, he noted, is commendable, as the Chapman Library plays a crucial role in the university’s academic activities and is deeply valued.
”CSU is proud to be one of the first academic institutions in Ghana, and possibly West Africa, to dedicate a full month to celebrating and promoting library engagement,” Prof. Afrane stated. ”This groundbreaking initiative highlights our commitment to fostering a research-driven academic culture and enhancing access to knowledge resources.”
He expressed optimism that by the end of the celebration, students and staff would have a better understanding of the resources available at Chapman Library, including online databases and virtual learning tools. He also anticipated that the peak period of the celebration, which included a book fair, fun activities, debates, and a seminar, would be thrilling and educative.
The CSU Vice Chancellor concluded by encouraging students to embrace the library as an essential academic companion, emphasizing that “a well-utilized library is the backbone of academic success.”
Story By:
Anastasia C. Afenu
(Institutional Advancement Office)