Users’ Perception of Library Facilities: Evidence from the University of Cape Coast

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to present the findings of the users’ perception of library facilities on quality of service at Sam Jonah Library University of Cape Coast, Ghana using Library Quality (LibQUAL+) model approach. The survey used the LibQUAL+ model to evaluate quality of service at Sam Jonah Library University of Cape Coast, Ghana. The data were collected from library users by administering the LibQUAL+ questionnaire in a printed format. Using the survey design, both open-ended and close-ended questions were used to obtain data from 400 respondents, comprising of 310 and 50 undergraduate and postgraduate students, respectively and 40 faculty members. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 was used to analyze data from the questionnaire and descriptive statistics in the form of frequencies and percentages. Inferential statistics was also used to determine the relationship between gender and adequacy of library resources. Findings from the study showed that majority of the respondents agreed that the library had adequate number of computers to meet their needs. The respondents also affirmed that the library had comfortable tables and chairs for effective learning and a space that is conducive for learning. However, postgraduate students did not consider the library environment conducive for learning. The respondents indicated that the printing materials in the library were inadequate. Students’ expectations were higher than their perceptions on what the library provided. Therefore, the researchers recommended that the library should establish knowledge commons for undergraduate students and research commons for postgraduate students.