The purpose of this research is to show how information literacy competencies influence university students’ utilization of academic library services. It investigates multiple dimensions of user experience, including access to information resources, digital literacy, search behavior, awareness of library services, instruction programs, staff support, technological infrastructure and overall satisfaction.
A quantitative descriptive survey design was used and 380 students of a Bangladeshi university were surveyed. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire in the form of schedule on nine areas and analyzed in terms of mean, standard deviation and internal consistency.
The findings show that, students have a moderate to high level of competing skill in digital and information literacies particularly identified in the areas of finding and using information ethically. Perceptions of the core library services and staff support are strong. But we have room to grow in more advanced search capabilities, utilization of technological infrastructure and awareness of subject-specific support. Results indicate that while library instruction programs are impactful, increased participation and visibility is necessary.
Academic libraries need to increase the visibility and the customizability of instruction program, to fill in gaps in digital search skills, and to invest on technical infrastruc-ture that will correspond with users’ new academic realities.
The study offers empirical evidence on how the various information literacy skills influence library use and satisfaction. It defines areas for service improvement which are actionable in the under-researched setting of Bangladeshi university libraries.
