“The reality of beneficiaries’ use of electronic information sources at the University of Khartoum”

Document Type : Refereed research papers.

Authors

Al-Nilein University, Sudan

Abstract

The study addressed the topic of students' and faculty members' attitudes towards benefiting from electronic information sources at the University of Khartoum. It focused on the reality of using these sources and the difficulties faced by users, as well as the challenges libraries encounter in effectively managing intellectual output and providing electronic resources. The study aimed to analyze the actual use of electronic information sources by exploring their various types and forms, while identifying the obstacles faced by students and faculty members in accessing these resources. The researcher employed a survey methodology to collect data through questionnaires, checklists, and personal interviews with university library staff. The results revealed that most students and faculty members utilize available electronic information sources via online access and CDs. The study indicated that the primary motivations for seeking information include academic research and study. However, a number of challenges were identified, such as the lack of easy access to electronic information and insufficient training on how to use these resources.Based on the findings, the study presented several important recommendations. These include providing students and faculty members with computers connected to the university's local network and conducting training courses for library staff to enhance their skills in dealing with electronic sources. Additionally, the importance of improving the internal work environment of libraries and advancing electronic libraries to play a more active role in supporting the educational and research processes was emphasized.

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