Abstract
University libraries in Nigeria have invested in electronic information resources (EIRs),
yet undergraduate use remains uneven. This study examined how institutional policy,
electricity supply, accessibility of EIRs and internet connectivity relate to
undergraduates' use of library-based EIRs in state-owned universities in South-West
Nigeria. A correlational survey of 300-level science and agriculture students in eight
state universities yielded 1,292 usable questionnaires from 1,335 distributed (96.78%).
Respondents reported using a range of resources, particularly e-databases, e-books and
educational videos. Use was typically monthly to weekly; audio and video materials
were used most often, while use of named scholarly databases varied. Institutional
conditions were rated moderately supportive (weighted mean = 2.92 of 4), highest for
policy (3.01) and lowest for internet connectivity (2.81). Institutional factors correlated
positively with EIR use (r = .424, p < .001), sharing approximately 18% of the variance
in reported use. Connectivity and accessibility showed the strongest associations with
use. The findings point to the need to coordinate resource subscriptions with reliable
power, internet access and practical arrangements that help students discover and use
licensed resources.
Keywords: Electronic information resources; Institutional factors; State universities;
Nigeria
Publication Date: 2026-10-31