Preserving the Knowledge of Displaced Communities: The Responsibility of Academic Libraries in Archiving Migrant and Refugee Narratives

Ifeoma Abigail Ajie, Loveth O. Ekwueme & Patricia Ngozi Ofodu

Abstract

Academic libraries have long served as custodians of knowledge, safeguarding texts and cultural artifacts for scholarly and societal benefit. In the 21st century, however, the growing displacement of populations due to conflict, climate change, persecution, and economic instability has underscored the urgent need to preserve the narratives of migrants and refugees. These stories, often marginalised or at risk of erasure, embody cultural memory, identity, and resilience. This study examines the responsibility of academic libraries for archiving displaced communities’ narratives, highlighting the approaches, implications, and challenges involved. Using a systematic literature review guided by PRISMA standards, 99 articles were initially retrieved, with 23 meeting inclusion criteria for full analysis. Findings reveal that libraries increasingly adopt participatory and culturally sensitive archival
practices, including oral histories, community collaborations, and digital repositories. Such approaches enhance inclusivity, representation, and intercultural dialogue, positioning libraries as agents of social justice and integration. Yet, significant challenges persist: ethical concerns around consent, confidentiality, and ownership; resource limitations; risks of misrepresentation; and difficulties in sustaining archives across diverse contexts. The implications extend beyond preservation, requiring libraries to balance accessibility with protection, foster partnerships with displaced communities, and train librarians in trauma-informed practices. Ultimately, academic libraries must evolve from passive custodians to active collaborators, ensuring that migrant and refugee voices are preserved authentically for posterity. This research contributes to policy, governance, and professional training, reinforcing libraries’ role as vital institutions in safeguarding cultural heritage and human experience.

Keywords: Archives, Displaced Communities, Academic Libraries, Migrant and Refugee Narratives