Purpose: The objective of this study was to explore the challenges of access and use of electronic information resources (EIRs) among students of higher institutions in Taraba State, Nigeria.
Design/Method/Approach: The study employed quantitative research methodology, with a cross-sectional survey design to elicit data from the respondents. The study population comprises the three (3) higher institutions with available and functional electronic information resources namely: Taraba State University, Federal University, Wukari and Taraba State College of Nursing and Midwifery with 10748 registered users who constituted the population and out of these, 370 users were selected using a simple random sampling technique. This was done by selecting the respondents from all areas of study regardless of their course, level, age and gender. Research advisors table 2006 was used in determining the sample size of the study. A self-developed questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection. The data gathered were analyzed through descriptive statistics, via the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 16.0.
Findings: The results of the study revealed that various types of electronic information resources were available in the higher institutions libraries in Taraba State. These include e-books, online databases, e-journals, as well as CDROMs. It was also found that the extent of access to the available EIRs was moderate and also poor internet connectivity, insufficient computer terminals, inadequacy of Information and Communication and Communication Technology (ICT) skills were some of the major factors working against the smooth access and use of EIRs in the institutions studied.
Originality/Value: This research is novel to Taraba State, in that it examines the extent of access and use of electronic information resources in the state. It also identify the challenges bedeviling the smooth access and use of EIRS among students of higher institutions in Taraba State as well as proffer solutions to the challenges.