Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Document Type
Article
Abstract
Information needs arise when an individual finds himself in a problem situation, when he or she no longer can manage with the knowledge that he or she possess. Library patrons repeatedly find themselves in situations where information is needed, sought and gathered, organized, retrieved, processed, evaluated, and used. The objectives of this study are to examine the information requirements of students and researchers in Federal University Otuoke, to asses both human and material resources in the library; to determine the level at which the library satisfies the information needs of the users; and to find out best way(s) to meet these information needs of patrons in this ICT age. A Total of (250) library users from different departments and faculties were used as sample. Data were collected through a 20 item questionnaire which was developed based on objectives adopted. 220 dully completed questionnaires were returned in good condition. Data collected were analyzed using frequencies and percentages of responses. The findings revealed that the library patrons are more interested in the information related to, teaching, learning and research activities. The outcome of the research also revealed that the attitudes of the respondents were favorable in the use of library resources but there is the need for improvement in such areas as library services and provision of adequate space for readers. It was found out that majority of the respondents sought information from journals, textbooks, reference books than other library materials. Major obstacles faced by patrons while seeking information included lack of resource sharing facilities and equipments, lack/inadequate ICT skills.