DIGITAL LIBRARY FOR OPEN AND DISTANCE LEARNING (ODL) ENVIRONMENT FOR ACCESSIBILITY, TECHNOLOGICAL INFRASTRUCTURE, AND USER SATISFACTION AT NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA

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Date
2026
Authors
OKWOLI, Mercy Enefu
UKOHA, Igwe O.
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Library and Information Management Forum Vol. 28. No. 1 2026
Abstract
This study examined the accessibility and user-friendliness of the digital library system at the National Open University of Nigeria from the perspectives of students and staff. The research aimed to assess users' perceptions of system ease of use, resource discoverability, system availability, and overall satisfaction. A descriptive survey design was employed, utilizing structured questionnaires to gather data. The sample consisted of 335 respondents, including students and staff members actively using the digital library. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean scores and standard deviations. Findings revealed that the perceived ease of finding resources and overall user-friendliness received moderate scores of approximately 2.97 and 2.89, indicating some concerns about intuitiveness and efficiency. The lowest score of 2.59 for system availability and functionality suggests users experience difficulties accessing resources when needed, which may hinder overall accessibility. The overall perception of accessibility and user-friendliness was slightly positive, with a mean score of 2.96, but variability in responses indicates differing user experiences. The study concludes that while the digital library system is generally perceived as accessible, issues related to resource discoverability, interface intuitiveness, and system reliability require attention. Recommendations include investing in infrastructure upgrades, enhancing system support, and establishing user feedback mechanisms to improve accessibility and user satisfaction. Continuous improvement efforts are essential to optimize the digital library’s role in supporting effective open and distance learning at the university.
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journal of Library and Information Management Forum
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