AWARENESS AND UTILIZATION OF OPEN ACCESS RESOURCES IN ASOM BUR LEARNING RESOURCE CENTRE, UNIVERSITY OF MKAR BY UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

Abstract

This study examined the extent of awareness and utilization of open access resources in University of Mkar library (Asom Bur Learning Resource Centre). One hundred (100) undergraduate students out of a total of about One thousand and fifty (1.050) were randomly selected. Descriptive survey design was employed and questionnaire was the main instrument used for data collection: however observation was also applied where necessary. Data collected were analyzed using tables, percentage and frequency distribution. Results revealed that the undergraduate students of University of Mkar University are moderately aware of the existence of Open Access Resources (OARs), majority of the students who use open access resources do so to supplement the library's inadequate relevant information materials, erratic power supply disrupts the flow and stability of Internet service, and lack of Internet searching skills, all affected the maximal utilization of Open Access Resources. Some recommendations were made such as the training and retraining of librarians who will in turn assist these users explore OARs online, provision of power backup such as power inverters and solar power, organizing open access week/seminars or workshop as sensitization.