Remote access to e-resources by postgraduate students at Gulu university library in Uganda

Abstract

Access to e-resources remotely remains a significant challenge for postgraduate students, particularly at Gulu University, where access to subscription-based (closed-access) journals is a major concern. However, e-resources are vital sources of information available online, both through commercial platforms and Open Access channels. They are generally easy to access and provide scholarly reference materials that are regularly updated and enhanced with hyperlinks for remote content. To facilitate access to commercial e-resources, the Gulu University Library joined the Consortium of Uganda University Libraries (CUUL), through which subscriptions to various commercial databases and e journals are accessed. These include, among others, Taylor & Francis Online, OAPEN Library, EBSCOhost, Google Patents, LibHub, PubMed Central, and Research4Life. In addition, the study revealed that postgraduate students also accessed a wide range of Open Access resources, which are freely available online. The purpose of this study was to investigate the remote access and use of e resources by postgraduate students at Gulu University. The study examined patterns of access and usage of e-resources, which are critical in determining the level of utilization and in enhancing understanding of research and learning processes, including how new knowledge is acquired. The study was guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which provided the theoretical framework. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires and interviews. The study proposed a conceptual framework illustrating the key factors influencing access to and use of e-resources in academic institutions in Uganda. It concluded that improved user awareness, ICT training, availability of appropriate software facilities, and reliable internet connectivity would significantly enhance postgraduate students’ remote access to and utilization of e-resources at Gulu University. The study recommends that relevant policies and practices be implemented to improve the quality and efficiency of remote access, strengthen user training on remote library services, and enhance staff capacity to provide effective, on-demand support to postgraduate students. Furthermore, the study suggests that longitudinal research be conducted, particularly to identify and develop appropriate models for training students in the effective remote use of library services.