Influence of Computer Literacy Skill and Online Searching On Undergraduates’ Use of Academic Materials in Babcock University Library

Abstract

The exponential growth of information resources on the Web have necessitate the need for computer literacy and online searching skills to enhance easy access to and use of academic materials in university libraries for more productivity. The study adopted a Survey research design. Questionnaire was used to collect data for the study, and descriptive statistical method was used in analyzing the data collected and simple random sampling techniques were used to administer the questionnaire. The findings revealed that 88% of the respondents are computer literate which they acquire mainly through formal computer and IT training programme and are proficient on the use of Microsoft word, PowerPoint and Excel. Also, the study shows that majority of the students don’t use Boolean logic in search of academic materials online. And that low speed access, inadequate computer system in the library and fluctuation of Internet services are the major challenges. The study recommends that university libraries should provide proper training on online searching skill, efficient Internet service and adequate computer system in the library.