Abstract
Academic libraries are increasingly integrating emerging library technologies (ELTs) to improve research support and user experience. However, how extensive final year students use ELTs towards user satisfaction in private university libraries remains under studied. This study thus, examined ELTs use and user satisfaction among final-year students of Clifford University. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design. The population comprised of 274 final year. Census technique was adopted. Data was collected using questionnaire, where 203 (74.1%) copies were returned. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Findings revealed that electronic databases were the most widely reported available technology (94.1%), whereas RFID/self-service technology was least reported (23.2%). ELT use significantly predicted user satisfaction (R² = 0.254, β = 0.504, p < 0.001), as did AI use (R² = 0.240, β = 0.490, p < 0.001). The joint model was significant (R = 0.602, R² = 0.363, F(2, 200) = 56.94, p < 0.001), with both ELT use (β = 0.376) and AI use (β = 0.354) making significant positive contributions. The study recommended that Clifford library management should strengthen AI literacy programs that teach students how to search effectively, verify AI-generated information and use AI ethically in research; conduct periodic user-satisfaction assessments to guarantee service quality and research outcomes. The study concluded that stronger use of ELTs is associated with higher satisfaction, while infrastructure, access and support constraints remain important service priorities.
Keywords: Emerging library technologies; artificial intelligence; user satisfaction; academic libraries; final-year students; Clifford University
Publication Date: 2026-10-31