How the University of Malta Library helps students to learn

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between the process of learning and the use of the library. It followed on the same lines as that of three similar research projects that were carried out at Colorado University library in 2006, the Hong Kong University Library in 2004, and Kent State University in 1996. The investigation entailed the collection of data through a systematic questionnaire design. The questionnaire was distributed among a sample of students at the Main University library at Msida and the Health Sciences Library at Mater Dei Hospital. Data that was collected from the respondents revealed that there is a link between the process of learning and the use of the library. The results showed that patrons seek the library to further their studies through research and reading. This was achieved by using the library services offered therein. Among the services that the patrons seek include new books, electronic journals, availability of computers and a quiet space for studying. Almost 70% of the questionnaire revealed that the respondents are able to find the books needed on their own. They also spend 66% of their time onsite at the library while 34% remotely accessing the library resources including the use of wifi. The questionnaire has also shown that the patrons use the library website to search mainly on the OPAC catalogue and to obtain bibliographic information.