Application of Social Media in the Promotion of Research Activities: Librarians as Catalysts

Helen U. Emasealu; Susan N. Umeozor

Helen U. Emasealu Department of Library and Information Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State.
Susan N. Umeozor Donald E. U. Ekong Library, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Keywords: Social media, Networking, Librarians, and Academic Activities.

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess library use pattern by undergraduates in the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. The study examined the reasons for library use by undergraduates and their opinion on library use. Seven-hundred and fifty structured questionnaires were distributed to students in four selected faculties of Sciences, Management, and Medical Sciences of the University of Port Harcourt, and six hundred were retrieved as correctly responded to, amounting to 80% response rate. The result showed that undergraduates recognize the importance of the library as a place for general knowledge update; however, they use the library for preparation for examinations. The study also found that undergraduates identify the library as the hub of knowledge acquisition. The study recommends that library administrators should embark on a massive advocacy campaign programmes aimed at improving library use by undergraduates.