Influence of Users Education on Students Use of Library Resources in Federal Polytechnics in North-East, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the influence of user education on students’ use of library resources in federal polytechnics in North-East, Nigeria. The research was guided by three research questions aligned with its objectives, focusing on the extent of library resource use, the influence of user education, and its significance. Method: A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The study population consisted of 1,000 HND students registered with polytechnic libraries in North-East, Nigeria, with a sample size of 500 HND students selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency counts, percentages, and means, with a criterion mean benchmark of 2.50. Findings/Results: The findings indicated a high extent of library resource use among students (M > 2.50). User education had a positive influence on the use of library resources, with a statistically significant impact on students’ utilization of library information resources. Notably, students utilized printed resources more frequently than electronic resources. Implications: The results suggest that user education significantly enhances students’ ability to effectively utilize library resources, particularly printed materials, in federal polytechnics. This underscores the importance of structured educational programs to improve resource access and usage. Conclusion: The study concludes that user education significantly guides students in utilizing library information resources in federal polytechnics in North-East, Nigeria, with a notable preference for printed over electronic resources. Recommendations: The study recommends that the management of federal polytechnic libraries in North-East, Nigeria, introduce additional user education programs and prioritize existing ones to further enhance students’ effective use of library resources.