Use Of Electronic Resources By Postgraduate Users in Kenyan Selected Academic Libraries

Justin Merande; Naomi Mwai; James Ogalo

Justin Merande University of Nairobi
Naomi Mwai
James Ogalo

Keywords: Electronic resources, access, use, challenges, academic libraries, awareness

Abstract

Electronic resources have presented many benefits alongside challenges to information consumers. The advent of new technologies facilitates virtual resource sharing by diverse users compared to print resources. However, despite academic libraries spending a huge sum of money subscribing to various e-resources, it has been noted that some of these resources are under-utilized due to low levels of awareness and lack of access and skills. This study used a mixed-method design in four (4) Kenyan university academic libraries. SPSS software was used to analyze data and information. It was established that 73% of respondents have access to e-journals while 29.7% reported that the high cost of the subscription to some resources was a challenge to them. It was however concluded that electronic resources are heavily used and are vital to support the objectives of universities by improving the performance of postgraduate students.

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