Use of E-Library Services by Postgraduate Students at Mzuzu University

Abstract

Mzuzu University Library provides various e-library services to postgraduate students. However, a minimal amount is known regarding the use of these e-library services by postgraduate students. This mixed methods quantitative study aimed to investigate postgraduate students’ use of e-library services. The findings reveal that 95% of postgraduate students knew about e-library services. In comparison, 83% knew internet access, and 73% knew e-journals service from 10 e-library services that Mzuzu University offers. Further, 80% and 64% of postgraduate students used the internet and e-journals, respectively, while other e-library services were the least used. Additionally, 68% of users were satisfied with the internet and 64% were confident with e-journals. Factors such as usefulness, availability of support, and resources influenced postgraduate students’ use of e-library services. Inadequate infrastructure and staff support discouraged some users from effectively using e-library services. Training and marketing are highly recommended.

Keywords:

• E-library services
• postgraduate students
• Mzuzu University
• Malawi

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).