ACCESSIBILITY AND UTILIZATION OF LIBRARY RESOURCES: A CASE STUDY OF KANO STATE POLYTECHNIC

Abstract

This study investigated the accessibility and utilization of library resources among users at Kano State Polytechnic, Kano. The purpose was to identify the types of information resources available, the extent to which they are utilized, and the relationship between their availability and usage. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected through an open-ended questionnaire administered to a sample of 88 respondents drawn from a population of 2,266 registered library users, including students and academic staff. The sample was selected using simple random sampling techniques to ensure representativeness. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, and Pearson correlation analysis. Findings revealed that textbooks were the most available (59.0%) and utilized (72.7%) resources, while other materials such as journals, encyclopedias, and digital resources were underutilized. A statistically significant positive correlation (r = 0.742, p < 0.01) was found between the availability and utilization of resources, suggesting that increased availability enhances usage. The study concludes that despite the central role of the library in academic support, its current holdings are heavily print-based and under-diversified. Recommendations include expanding digital resource access, improving infrastructure, and implementing comprehensive user education programmes to foster greater engagement with a wider range of academic materials.