Use of Resources by Research Scholars in University Libraries with Special Reference to Electronic Media

Abstract

In view of the transition stage from print media to electronic media, information seeking pattern of users particularly research scholars are likely to change. The present study was undertaken with an objective to ascertain as to what extent electronic as well as other traditional resources are being used in university environment in India as well as in neighboring counties having similar conditions like India, The analysis was focused to determine the use of the basic information sources in research particularly electronic resources. Results indicate that traditional sources are still dominantly used with little use of electronic media except the use of some commercial subject databases on CD-ROM. Internet use is much below the expectation. Even free e-journals are not being referred. Users, no doubt, have the aptitude to use electronic resources including Internet but lack adequate facilities as well as initiation from professionals. Suggest that enhancing the usability of available resources by way of adapting user to the systems and services seems to be more viable.