Transforming User Engagement: Awareness and Utilization of Information Sources At Sikkim University Library
M. Suresh Babu, Reshmi Deb Choudhury Das
International Journal of Information Studies, Vol. 18, No. 1, 2025.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.6025/ijis/2026/18/1/23-35
Link: https://www.dline.info/ijis/fulltext/v18n1/ijisv18n1_2.pdf
Abstract:
The study investigates how students, faculty, and researchers perceive and use the library's resources and
services. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected from 70 purposively selected respondents
through a structured questionnaire, supplemented by library records and scholarly literature. Findings
reveal high awareness and usage of print books (85.7% aware, 65.7% frequent users), but significantly
lower engagement with digital resources only 60% were aware of online databases, and just 35.7% used
them frequently. Research support services showed the widest gap: 55.7% awareness but only 20% frequ
ent use. Key barriers include a lack of understanding (45.7%), insufficient digital training (40%), limited
access to technology (31.4%), and complex online interfaces (25.7%). A chi-square test confirmed a statistically
significant relationship between awareness and utilisation (Ã·Â² = 41.39, df = 3, p < 0.05). The study
concludes that targeted awareness campaigns, mandatory digital literacy workshops, infrastructure upgrades,
and user friendly interfaces are essential to bridge usage gaps. Strategic recommendations include
integrating library training into the curriculum and improving discovery tools. Ultimately, the research
underscores the need for a user centred approach to align Sikkim University Library's evolving services with
academic demands in the digital age, thereby enhancing accessibility, satisfaction, and scholarly support.