User apathy towards library resources and Service: a case study of the University of Calabar library, Calabar, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was conducted in the University of Calabar Library, Calabar, Nigeria using survey research design. The population of the study consisted of all registered undergraduate library users between the 2014 and 2015. The total population of the study was 5,244 users. Accidental sampling technique was used to select 300 respondents who constituted the sample of the study. The study sought to ascertain if there is a state of apathy toward library resources and services in the University of Calabar library. The finding showed that the level of usage of library resources and services dropped significantly between 2012 and 2015. The books borrowed from the library and the number of registered Undergraduate library users within the same period showed a remarkable decline. Insufficient seats, attitude of library staff towards users, Erratic Power supply, Students access to personal computer and smart phones, low information literacy competencies of undergraduates and inadequate information resources were identified as reasons for the state of apathy towards the library. It was recommended in the study that: Libraries with perceived incidents alluding to the prevalence of users’ apathy would have to resort to awareness and advocacy programmes to woo potential users back to the library. It is important to review the library use instruction programme, the services provided by the library and the attitude of Library staff towards users. There should be conscious efforts to correct any lapse arising from the review.

KEY WORDS: User, Apathy, Library, Resources, Services, University, Calabar, Nigeria.