Students Usage of an Academic Library: a user survey conducted at the Main Library University of Peradeniya

Abstract

Since the university library is committed to provide an excellent service for its users, it has to develop an on-going dialog with the users. One of the main tools that can be used to assess the library services is the user surveys. This study was undertaken to assess library user satisfaction with current information services and resources while identifying user needs. A questionnaire based survey was used for data collection. The questionnaires were distributed among 800 undergraduates who visit the library. It was found that the undergraduates are overall satisfied with available library resources, services and facilities. But it further found that library resources and services are not being fully utilized by undergraduates. Based on these findings, it was recommended that a comprehensive information literacy program should be conducted to promote awareness and use of electronic information resources. It was also recommended that the library should increase the acquisition of electronic information sources while continuing to acquire general and reference materials to fulfill the current research needs of the users. Key words: User studies; User needs; User assessment; University library use; academic library use; undergraduate library use doi: 10.4038/jula.v14i1.2687Journal of the University Librarians Association of Sri Lanka. Vol.14 (Issue 1). 2010 43-60