Use and satisfaction with online public access catalogue in selected university libraries in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

This research work examined the use of online public access catalogue (OPAC) among final year students in Redeemer’s University and University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Nigeria. The objectives were to ascertain the extent to which students utilize the OPAC, ascertain the level of satisfaction with OPAC utilization and identify challenges faced while using the OPAC.  The descriptive survey design was used for the study. The study population was made up of 2,650 students in the 4th year of study. Stratified random sampling technique was used for sample selection. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using frequency and percentage counts. Findings from the study revealed poor OPAC utilization among the respondents. It did, however, show that respondents’ were moderately satisfied with the use of the OPAC but faced challenges such as lack of orientation on OPAC use, inadequate computer supplies and erratic power supply. Based on the findings, recommendations were made for university libraries to ensure that students are adequately trained to make maximum use of the OPAC.  In addition, the management of the studied universities should endeavour to provide more computers to assist students’ use of the OPAC while considering alternative sources of power supply to support the erratic nature of power supply in Nigeria.

Key Words: Online public access catalogue (OPAC); Information retrieval; University libraries.