Investigating Library and Information Needs of Unza Lis Students

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.