Usage patterns and user attitudes towards library resources: A study of postgraduate and research students at Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu

This study examines library usage patterns and attitudes among 125 postgraduate students, M.Phil. students, and Ph.D. scholars at Madurai Kamaraj University. Survey data revealed that the majority of respondents were female (58.4%) and PG students (43.2%). The frequency of library visits varied, with Ph.D. scholars and M.Phil. students most likely to visit almost daily, while PG students visited most often thrice weekly. The primary purpose for using library resources differed by academic level, with research being the main focus for Ph.D. and M.Phil. students, and study for PG students. A Friedman test ranked various aspects of library resources and services, with ease of locating materials, the volume of relevant textbooks, and direct access to services ranking highest. A two-way ANOVA analysis found significant relationships between respondents’ profiles (category, gender, visit frequency, and usage purpose) and their attitudes towards available library resources. The findings provide insights into user behavior and preferences, which can inform efforts to enhance library services and resource allocation for different user groups in academic settings.