This paper investigates the continued relevance of LibQUAL in the context of academic libraries. The study objectives were to examine the relationship between affect of service (AS) and perceived library service quality (PLSQ); determine the effect of information control (IC) on PLSQ; analyse the effect of library as a place (LP) on PLSQ; and assess the influence of users' demographics on PLSQ.
A cross-sectional study was conducted using a sample size of 230 (210 students, 20 staff) respondents of the College of Business Education (CBE) – Mbeya Campus in Tanzania. Data were collected using a LibQUAL-based questionnaire and were subjected to multiple regressions.
LibQUAL dimensions, including AS, IC and LP, were statistically significant in enhancing library service quality assessment. User demographics had a weak influence on perceived quality of library services. The study generally confirms the continued applicability of LibQUAL despite its lately 2025 discontinuation and transition from administratively and centrally controlled to autonomous institutional administration.
Findings highlight the rationale for library managers in prioritising user engagement in evaluating quality of library services on offer.
Unlike previous studies which assessed LibQUAL service from central administration by the Association of Research Libraries (ARL), this study highlights the relevance and applicability of LibQUAL dimensions by individual institutions.
