Perception and Use of OPAC by Users in Academic Libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background of the study: The study investigated the use and perception of Online Public Catalogue (OPAC) by users in academic libraries in Kwara State, Nigeria.
 Purpose: The study adopted descriptive survey research method were a total number of 203 questionnaires were distributed amongst library users in both selected academic libraries. A simple random sampling technique was used for this study.
 Method: The descriptive analysis was used to analyze the collected data using frequency counts and simple percentages.
 Findings: The study revealed that majority of the respondents is aware of the existence and availability of OPAC. Although a very small percent of respondents in Unilorin and Kwara State Polytechnic got their awareness of OPAC through the library. The study also revealed that an average percent of respondents in both institutions can make use of the library OPAC effectively. Based on user’s perception of OPAC, the findings show that majority of respondents highly acknowledge OPAC, well perceived and more preferred to card catalogue. A high percent of respondents admitted that the library OPAC enable them to locate materials quickly on the shelf. However, most of the respondents showed that they are facing some challenges which include poor network services, power failure, poor assistance from the library staff etc.
 Conclusion: The researchers recommend that the library should create more awareness and effective user education for students on the use of OPAC at various levels to ensure maximum utilization of the library resources.