ACCESSIBILITY AND UTILISATION OF REFERENCE RESOURCES AND SERVICES BY STUDENTS IN POLYTECHNIC LIBRARIES IN SOUTH EAST NIGERIA

TOPIC IS SUITABLE FOR:
1. Department of Library and Information Science

2. Department of Education

3. Department of Information Science

4. Department of Educational Management

TOPIC: ACCESSIBILITY AND UTILISATION OF REFERENCE RESOURCES AND SERVICES BY STUDENTS IN POLYTECHNIC LIBRARIES IN SOUTH EAST NIGERIA

TABLE OF CONTENT
Abstract

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

1.2 Statement of the Problem

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1.4 Research Questions

1.5 Research Hypotheses

1.6 Significance of the Study

1.7 Scope of the Study

1.8 Definition of Terms

CHAPTER TWO: REVIEW OF LITERATURE

2.1 Conceptual Framework

2.2 Theoretical Framework

2.3 Empirical Review

2.4 Summary of Literature Review

CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY

3.0 Introduction

3.1 Research Design

3.2 Population of the Study

3.3 Sample Size

3.4 Sampling Technique

3.5  Instrument for Data Collection

3.6 Validity of the Instrument

3.7 Reliability of the Instrument

3.8 Method Of Data Collection 

3.9 Method of Data Analysis

3.10 Ethical Consideration

CHAPTER FOUR: DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS

4.0 Introduction

4.1 Data Presentation    

4.2 Demographic Analysis 

4.3 Analysis of the Availability of Reference Resources and Services Provided in Polytechnic Libraries in South East Nigeria

4.4 Analysis of the Level of Accessibility of Reference Resources and Services in Polytechnic Libraries in South East Nigeria

4.5 Analysis of the Extent of Utilisation of Reference Resources and Services by Students in Polytechnic Libraries in South East Nigeria

4.6 Analysis of Challenges Affecting the Accessibility and Utilisation of Reference Resources and Services in Polytechnic Libraries in South East Nigeria

4.7 Test of Hypotheses

4.8 Discussion of Finding

CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 Introduction

5.2 Summary

5.3 Conclusion

5.4 Limitations of the Study

5.5 Recommendations

5.6 Suggestions for Further Studies

REFERENCES

APPENDIX

ABSTRACT
This study was carried out to examine the accessibility and utilisation of reference resources and services by students in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria. The study was specifically carried out to examine the availability of reference resources and services provided in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria, assess the level of accessibility of reference resources and services in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria, determine the extent of utilisation of reference resources and services by students in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria, and identify challenges affecting the accessibility and utilisation of reference resources and services in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria. The study employed the descriptive research design. The population of the study comprised 12,486 registered students who utilised the libraries of selected polytechnics in South East Nigeria during the period of the study. A total of 388 respondents were selected as sample size using the Taro Yamane formula and multi-stage sampling technique involving stratified and convenience sampling methods. Hence, the questionnaire was used for data collection, while the data collected were analysed using frequency tables, mean scores, standard deviation, Pearson Chi-square and Logistic Regression statistical tools. From the responses obtained and analysed, the findings revealed that reference resources and services were available in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria with an overall mean score of 3.72. The study also showed that the level of accessibility of reference resources and services was high with an overall mean score of 3.67. Likewise, the study revealed that students utilised reference resources and services to a considerable extent with an overall mean score of 3.68. The hypothesis test revealed that there was a significant relationship between availability of reference resources and level of utilisation among polytechnic students with r = 0.624, p = 0.012. The study further showed that accessibility of reference resources had a significant relationship with utilisation among students with r = 0.587, p = 0.018. Also, logistic regression analysis revealed that challenges affecting accessibility and utilisation of reference resources and services were significant, with inadequate current reference materials (B = 0.684, p = 0.002), poor internet connectivity (B = 0.593, p = 0.010), and shortage of technological facilities (B = 0.621, p = 0.003) among the major factors. The study therefore recommends that polytechnic libraries should regularly update reference resources, improve technological facilities, organise continuous user education programmes, and enhance library services to promote effective accessibility and utilisation of reference resources among students.

Keywords: Reference Resources, Library Services, Accessibility, Utilisation, Polytechnic Libraries.

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION (Preview)
1.1 Background of the Study
In the modern development of education, information is playing an important role, and the intellectual production in universities is mainly based on the free access to reliable academic information and the systematic knowledge system. Libraries thus serve as institutional repositories to which students go for intellectual assistance in learning, independent inquiry and cognitive development. Digital education and technology mediated learning have also changed expectations of academic libraries in developing countries. Agina-Obu and Evelyn (2023) revealed that user satisfaction is closely related to the quality and relevance of information resources provided for academic interactions in university libraries. Similarly, Ajiboye et al. (2023) noted that the availability of library resources and services greatly enhances research activities of postgraduate students in Nigerian universities. In the 21st century, libraries are integrating electronic databases, online reference tools, and virtual library assistance services to enhance educational provision and scholarly engagement (Ogunbodede and Cocodia, 2023).

The use of information technologies in the academic arena has therefore reshaped the nature and structure of reference services in tertiary institution libraries. Reference materials like dictionaries, encyclopedias, indexes, bibliographies, directories, manuals, atlases, abstracts, and electronic databases are invaluable for academic reference and information retrieval. These resources are supplemented by "reference" services such as readers' advisory, current awareness, selective dissemination of information, bibliographic instruction and digital reference. Ahmed and Farouk (2025) reiterated that the use of digital reference services in federal university libraries is vital for the efficient delivery of information and prompt users' engagement. Likewise, Iroroeavwo et al., (2023) claimed that access to electronic resources improves digital reference service and widens opportunities for students to explore and learn. Madu and Owolabi (2025) also pointed out that digital literacy plays an important role in the ability of students to access and use online information resources in tertiary institutions.

In the changing landscape of reference services, focus has turned to how available resources are used for academic work and to how accessible they are to students. Accessibility is the extent to which users can easily find, retrieve and interact with library materials and services without process or technology barriers. On the other hand, utilisation refers to the frequency and effectiveness of students' use of reference materials in meeting their academic and informational needs. Ashaver et al., (2024) observed that awareness is still a key factor in the utilization of digital resources in Nigerian Universities. Similarly, Ng'ang'a et al. (2025) found that students' access to library information resources has a significant impact on their involvement in learning and learning efficiency. Farouq (2026) also reported that user education programmes increase students' competence in effective use of library resources and services. Oberhiri-Orumah and Achugbue (2023) also linked positive users' perception to their satisfaction and patronage of academic library services.

In the context of polytechnic education in Nigeria, the role of libraries is strategic in academic activities as it assists in practical learning, technological training and vocational knowledge acquisition among students. Polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria are expected to offer relevant reference materials and good services that are able to support instructional activities in different disciplines. In these institutions, the use of electronic reference tools, Internet-based services and specialized information materials has increasingly influenced the way libraries deliver their services. Bulama et al. (2025) observed that the utilization of electronic information resources in the libraries of Polytechnics is still growing with the growing acceptance of digital academic culture. Musa (2025) also added that digital literacy skills affect students access and utilisation of online information resources in tertiary institutions. Olaninhun et al. (2025) attributed the role of information behaviour on students' use of digital library resources and Bosah et al. (2025) highlighted accessibility and availability in the use of digital library resources for effective information services. Therefore, a study of the accessibility and use of reference resources and services by students in Polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria is still important in the assessment of academic information support in the region.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

In tertiary institutions, reference resources and services are basic elements of academic library activities that support learning, research activities, information retrieval and self-study by students. In particular, Polytechnic libraries are expected to have print and electronic reference materials that can support technological and vocational education. But with the growing shift to digital information environments, there are significant expectations for effective accessibility mechanisms and continued use of library reference services by students. The growth of digital reference services in academic libraries in Nigeria has affected the users' perceptions of timely and effective service of information, as noted by Ahmed and Farouk (2025). In the same vein, Madu and Owolabi (2025) observed that the level of digital literacy of students has a significant impact on their access and use of online information resources. While the integration of reference resources in libraries is gradually becoming a reality, findings from available studies show that there are differences in accessibility, awareness and use of the resources in tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

Based on current experiences in many academic libraries, it is a fact that the mere existence of reference materials does not ensure that students can access them and use them effectively. Agina-Obu and Evelyn (2023) linked users' satisfaction with the adequacy and usability of information resources available within libraries. Ashaver et al. (2024) in another study found that awareness plays a significant role in determining the level of use of digital resources in tertiary institutions. Similarly, Iroroeavwo et al. (2023) stated that accessibility issues of electronic resources could impact student engagement with electronic reference services. Polytechnic institutions in South East Nigeria are situated in a fast changing educational environment where students rely on both hard copy and electronic references to obtain materials for assignments, practical learning and queries. However, the literature available so far has focused mainly on the Universities and general library resources with little empirical studies on reference resources and services in Polytechnic libraries in the South East region of Nigeria.

Uncertainties on the availability, accessibility and utilization of reference resources and services among polytechnic students create a gap for systematic study. Ng'ang'a et al., (2025) reiterated that the availability of library information resources significantly influences students' learning performance and efficiency. Moreover, Farouq (2026) stated that user education is an effective way to improve the competence of students in using library services and information materials. Furthermore, Oberhiri-Orumah and Achugbue (2023) associated users' perception of library services with enhanced patronage and satisfaction with services. The need for this study thus arises from the need to produce empirical evidence on the state of reference resources and services in Polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria. The study is also needed in order to find out the level of access and utilization of the available reference services by the students and identify the factors affecting the utilization of the reference services. The results of the study could help enhance library service provision, institutional planning as well as robust academic support systems in the region's polytechnic education.

1.3 Objective of the Study

The main purpose of thius study is to examine the accessibility and utilisation of reference resources and services by students in Polytechnic Libraries In South East Nigeria

The specific objectives are:

1.Examine the availability of reference resources and services provided in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria.

2.Assess the level of accessibility of reference resources and services in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria.

3.Determine the extent of utilisation of reference resources and services by students in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria.

4.Identify challenges affecting the accessibility and utilisation of reference resources and services in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria.
Other parts of chapter one include:
1.4 Research Questions

1.5 Research Hypotheses

1.6 Significance of the Study

1.7 Scope of the Study

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

CHAPTER TWO
REVIEW OF LITERATURE (Preview)
This chapter critically examines relevant literature that would assist in explaining the research problem and, furthermore, recognizes the efforts of scholars who had previously contributed immensely to similar research. The chapter intends to deepen the understanding of the study and close the perceived gaps. This chapter, therefore, focuses on the concept of library, polytechnic libraries, concept of reference resources, types of reference resources in libraries, etc. The chapter covers the following subheadings:
2.1 Conceptual Framework
2.2 Theoretical Framework
2.3 Empirical Review
2.4 Summary of Literature Review

CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY (Preview)
Research Design: The study adopted a descriptive research design.

Population of the Study: The population of the study comprises registered students who used the libraries of the selected polytechnics in South East Nigeria during the period of the study.

Sample Size Determination: The study adopted the Taro Yamane (1967) formula to determine a sample size of 388 participants.

Sampling Technique: The study employed a multi-stage sampling technique involving stratified and convenience sampling to select the individual respondents.

Research Instrument: The study utilized a structured questionnaire titled “Accessibility and Utilisation of Reference Resources and Services by Students in Polytechnic Libraries in South East Nigeria” as the instrument for data collection.

Methods of Data Analysis: The collected data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations to summarize and present the demographic characteristics of the respondents and their responses. Inferential statistics, such as Pearson Chi-square and logistic regression, were used to test the hypotheses.

CHAPTER FOUR; DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
MAJOR FINDINGS (Preview)
The analysis results were presented in tables. Based on the results obtained from the analysis, the following findings are made:

i. The study found that reference resources and services were available in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria, as evidenced by mean scores ranging from 3.54 to 3.89, which were above the acceptance benchmark of 3.00. This was further confirmed by the result of the corresponding hypothesis test, which showed a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.624, t-value of 15.34, and p-value of 0.012 (p < 0.05), leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. This implies that there is a significant relationship between the availability of reference resources and the level of utilisation among polytechnic students in South East Nigeria.

ii. The study found that reference resources and services were accessible to students in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria, as evidenced by mean scores ranging from 3.22 to 3.87, which were above the acceptance benchmark of 3.00. This was further confirmed by the result of the corresponding hypothesis test, which showed a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.587, t-value of 14.02, and p-value of 0.018 (p < 0.05), leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. This implies that there is a significant relationship between the level of accessibility of reference resources and the level of utilisation among polytechnic students in South East Nigeria.

iii. The study found that students utilised reference resources and services in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria, as evidenced by mean scores ranging from 3.39 to 3.87, which were above the acceptance benchmark of 3.00. This implies that students made use of reference books, journals, periodicals, electronic databases, internet-based reference resources, reference services provided by librarians, and user education programmes to support their academic and research activities.

iv. The study found that inadequate current reference materials, poor internet connectivity, limited awareness of available reference resources, inadequate professional librarians, shortage of computers and technological facilities, and limited library opening hours were challenges affecting the accessibility and utilisation of reference resources and services in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria, as evidenced by mean scores ranging from 3.56 to 3.90, which were above the acceptance benchmark of 3.00. This was further confirmed by the result of the corresponding hypothesis test, which showed significant logistic regression results for all six challenges, with p-values ranging from 0.002 to 0.040 (p < 0.05), leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. This implies that the identified factors significantly affect students’ accessibility to and utilisation of reference resources and services in polytechnic libraries in South East Nigeria.

CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This chapter covers the following outline:
5.1 Introduction

5.2 Summary

5.3 Conclusion

5.4 Limitations of the Study

5.5 Recommendations

5.6 Suggestions for Further Studies

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