EXPLORING STUDENTS’ USE OF E-RESOURCES IN THE E-LIBRARIES OF THE PUNJAB

This study was conducted to explore students’ use of E-resources in the E-libraries of the Punjab by using Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. The use of e-resources included; performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating condition, and behavioral intention to use the e-resources. Students’ access to e- collection, ease of access, frequency of using resources, and problems associated with access to e-resources was also explored. A quantitative survey was conducted using a descriptive research design. All 20 e-libraries of the Punjab were the population of this research. Six e-libraries were selected randomly as a sample.  The sample was selected from the list of users registered in each library using a proportionate sampling technique. The total number of participants was 250. A self-developed questionnaire with 26 items and a checklist having 8 items, was used to collect the data. To analyze the data descriptive statistics was used. The findings of this study showed that students agreed that they were getting advantages from these e-libraries and these e-libraries were very helpful in their study. They could easily and more efficiently do their work by using and accessing e-library resources. These e-libraries were especially beneficial for those students who did not afford laptops. It is suggested that the government should increase the number of these e-libraries and these libraries should be established in all big cities of Pakistan. The library staff should focus on resolving the problems which students are facing, like a shortage of computers and off-library access.