Perceived Challenges of Using Web-Based Library Services by Students in Prof. Festus Aghabgo Nwako Library, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigated the challenges confronting the use of web-based library services in Prof. Festus Aghagbo Nwako Library, NnamdiA zikiwe University, Awka. Methodology: The study adopted descriptive survey research design. The population comprised of 4,529 registered student users of the library and the sample size was 200 students accidentally selected while using the library. Questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection and the data collected were analyzed using mean. Findings: The result revealed that challenges such as lack of awareness of available web-based services, lack of fund and high cost of Internet services among others were confronting the use of web based services in the library. Implications: Lack of awareness of available web-based library services as major challenge to the use of the services shows that students were not aware of these services hence the need for academic libraries to market their web-based services. Value/Originality: The study’s educational value rest on the recommendations that the library should create awareness of available web-based services and the university authority should provide more funds to enable the library to fully upgrade its web-based services so that a true virtual experience could be derived from the use of these services.