Undergraduate Students' Perceptions of and Satisfaction with Library Services and Environment: A Case Study of the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined undergraduate students’ perceptions of and satisfaction with library services and the library environment at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted, targeting registered undergraduate students during the 2023/2024 academic session. Using the Yamane formula, a sample size of 398 students was determined, out of which 380 valid questionnaires were returned and analyzed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled Library Services, Environment and Users’ Satisfaction Questionnaire (LSEUSQ) and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that undergraduate students generally have positive perceptions of the library services, particularly the adequacy of resources, ease of using the catalogue, staff helpfulness, and accessibility of online resources. The physical and digital library environment was also rated favorably, with cleanliness, safety, seating arrangement, lighting, and ventilation contributing to a conducive learning atmosphere. Overall, students expressed a high level of satisfaction with library services and the environment. However, areas such as internet connectivity, availability of up-to-date materials, staff responsiveness, and provision of charging points require improvement. The study concludes that effective library services and a supportive environment significantly enhance undergraduate students’ satisfaction at the University of Ilorin. It recommends continuous upgrading of library resources, improvement of ICT infrastructure, enhanced staff-user relations, and regular assessment of users’ needs to sustain and improve satisfaction levels.