Patterns of Information-Seeking Behavior and Digital Access for Agrarian and Paramedical Community Users: A Study of Apex institution in Kota, India
Abstract
Information is essential for every person in the modern era. Information is known as knowledge, and the library plays a vital role in society by providing access to this knowledge. College students of every institution need regular updates of information for the progress of their respective fields. This study focuses on students from Apex Institute of Agriculture and Research (AIAR) and Apex Paramedical College (APC) in Kota, India. The questionnaire method was used to gather information from agriculture and paramedical stream students regarding digital access and information-seeking behavior of library users. This study examines the library IT infrastructure, e-library facilities, library timings, library management systems (LMS), use of library services, library collection development, research and training activities, online learning and information platforms, user satisfaction, and reference services. A total of 180 questionnaires were distributed to students across four programs (B.Sc. Agriculture, D.Pharma, BMLT, and DRT), with 105 responses received (58.33% response rate). The findings reveal that the majority of students (53.33%) visit the library daily, with most spending one hour (54%) in the library primarily for borrowing books (35%). Students expressed high satisfaction with library facilities including seating (91%), lighting (100%), drinking water (83%), and ventilation (81%). Keyword search (82%) is the preferred search technique, and full-text databases (40%) are the most commonly used. The study concludes that users are highly satisfied with the library resources, services, and physical facilities, and recommends improvements such as e-book facilities, OPAC access, and professional training programs for students.
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Introduction
Information is essential for every teacher, student, researcher, and administrator. The library is the heart of every institution. According to Dr. S.R. Ranganathan's trinity principle, the book, reader, and staff (librarian) are the most important elements for the development of any institution. This study clarifies the level of satisfaction or dissatisfaction of library users with the digital access, physical information, and reference services provided by the library to its users.
Conclusion
After detailed observation of the institutional details of APEX institutions, this study found that while the library serves its users well within limited resources, there is significant potential for improvement. Indian agriculture plays a crucial role in the national economy, making agricultural information services particularly important. This study confirms that users are highly satisfied with the library resources, services, and physical facilities. Key findings include:
- The majority of students (53.33%) visit the library daily, demonstrating strong engagement
- Most students (54%) spend one hour in the library per visit
- Borrowing books (35%) is the primary purpose for library visits
- Students expressed high satisfaction with seating (91%), lighting (100%), drinking water (83%), and ventilation (81%)
- Keyword search (82%) is the preferred search technique
- Title search (46%) is the most common search pattern
- Full-text databases (40%) are the most frequently used database type
The librarian should train students to help them find their required information efficiently and should organize conferences, seminars, or workshops on campus to support staff research projects.
