Abstract:
The environment in which human being, particularly, students operate makes information to
be one of the decisive factors for survival. Students seek information to fill an identified gap
in their quest for knowledge. This purpose of this study was to investigate library and
information needs of third and fourth students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in library and
information science at the University of Zambia. The investigation was based on the data
generated through questionnaire to determine students preferred source of information, to
ascertain students use of the library and library resources and to establish the challenges
encountered in accessing information. The study was a survey of LIS students purposively
selected with a sample size of 100 students. The study employed quantitative method of data
collection. Questionnaires were used to collect data from respondents and was analysed using
Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20.
The results indicated that majority of the students preferred using online resources as their
most go to information source and that they were highly satisfied with the information
source, 80% of the students indicated that they used the library and mainly for study purposes
and use of the library internet. The study recommends regular library orientation for a more
effective use of e-resources; good staff recruitment, personnel who are highly skilled and
knowledgeable to understand information needs of the students; good communication
between students and library staff must be encouraged in order to understand their
information needs. It was concluded that effective academic library information services
delivery requires quality service and adequate professional strategic management. Regular
survey on users and user studies would show the strengths and weaknesses in the activities of
the library and assist in understanding the information needs of the students.
