Student library use: a study of faculty perceptions in a Malaysian university

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper was to examine the importance faculty members place on student library use and their self‐perceived role in motivating students to use the library.

Design/methodology/approach

A modified and Arabised version of Baker's (1996) instrument was administered to all full‐time faculty teaching Islamic Studies disciplines at International Islamic University Malaysia.

Findings

The respondents consider student library use, making library‐based assignments and librarians'role as important. They are not fully satisfied with the students' library use skills, availability of information resources, and the value given to the library by university management. They expect librarians to provide, in addition to assisting students and faculty, a comfortable academic environment in the library.

Research limitations/implications

This study was carried out with faculty members of Islamic Studies disciplines at one university. Further studies on similar and more general populations must be conducted in order to understand the situation fully.

Practical implications

Librarians are urged to respond proactively to the needs of students and faculty, to adopt a strong marketing strategy, and to develop general and course‐integrated information literacy programmes.

Originality/value

Baker's (1996) instrument, modified to suit the context of the study, was used for the first time in a developing country. This will stimulate research in similar countries. An Arabised version was prepared which can be used in Arab countries for further research.

Citation

Adikata, A.A. and Anwar, M.A. (2006), "Student library use: a study of faculty perceptions in a Malaysian university", Library Review, Vol. 55 No. 2, pp. 106-119. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242530610649602