International Journal of Academic Library and Information Science
IJALIS
ISSN: 2360-7858
Vol. 14(4), pp. 270- -275 September, 2026.
ISSN: 2360-7858
https://doi.org/10.14662/ijalis202650
Full Length Research
Use of Departmental Libraries by Undergraduate Students of Imo State University, Owerri
1Magnus Chukwuduziem UNEGBU, 2Leona Ebere EKWEBELEM and 3Kingsley U. ORISAKWE
1Department of Library and Information Science, Alvan Ikoku Federal University Of Education, Owerri Imo State, Nigeria. PHONE: 08036661229. 2Department of Library and Information Science, Alvan Ikoku Federal University Of Education, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria 3The Polytechnic Library, Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
Corresponding author’s E-mail: callongoff @yahoo.com; magnus.unegbu@alvanikoku.edu.ng
Accepted 25 September 2026
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Abstract |
This study investigated the use of departmental libraries by undergraduate students of Imo State University, Owerri. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population comprised 365 undergraduate students who use departmental libraries in the university. A structured questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection. Out of the 365 copies of the questionnaire distributed, 280 copies were properly completed and returned, representing a 76.7% response rate. Data collected were analysed using frequency counts, mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that students utilize departmental libraries to a considerable extent for academic reading, assignment preparation, examination preparation and research activities. The study further found that available information resources and services, including textbooks, reference materials and other course-related materials, influence students’ utilization of departmental libraries. The findings also showed that factors such as availability of relevant resources, proximity of departmental libraries, conducive reading environment and supportive library staff significantly influence students’ use of departmental libraries. The study recommended regular assessment of students’ information needs, provision of current print and electronic resources, improvement of library facilities and continuous user education programmes to enhance effective utilization of departmental libraries.
Keywords: Departmental libraries, Students’ utilization, University libraries, Information resources, Library services, Information behaviour
| Cite This Article As: UNEGBU, MC., EKWEBELEM, LE., ORISAKWE, KU (2026). Use of Departmental Libraries by Undergraduate Students of Imo State University, Owerri. Inter. J. Acad. Lib. Info. Sci. 14(5): 270-275 | |