E Resources vs Prints Usages and Preferences by Undergraduates in a Private University Nigeria

Abstract

Electronic and print resources usages and preferences among undergraduates of Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria has been examined. The study population consist of all undergraduates of the University, from which a sample of 250 that is 10 percent of the population was selected. The instrument used for data collection was a questionnaire. 231 copies of the questionnaire were completed and returned, representing 92.45 per cent response rate. Results from the study revealed that 110 (47.6 %) of the respondents preferred print resources, while interestingly, the same number 110 (47.6 %) preferred electronic resources; 11(4.8 %) of the participants did not provide any response to the question. It therefore implies that both print and electronic resources are complementary in meeting the information needs of undergraduates. However, majority of the respondents indicated that they usually supplement print materials with electronic resources or vice versa. The test of hypotheses revealed that user preferences were influenced by demographic factors such as age, course and level of study. Libraries should maintain hybrid collections, as both resources were found to be relevant sources of information for teaching, learning and research is recommended.