Factors Influencing Library Usage among International Students and the Potential Role of Library Orientation

This study assesses factors influencing library usage among international students, with a specific focus on the role played by library orientation. Correlational and multivariate regression analyses were used to determine the relationships between the variables and to ascertain the degree of influence on library usage. Students who were admitted earlier used library resources more than recently enrolled students, and postgraduate students used the library more than undergraduates. After library orientation, the impacts of admission year and study level on library usage were positively reinforced significantly among international students. The study also addresses challenges faced by international students in their use of library resources. Recommendations include that library orientation be organized regularly for international students—both incoming and continuing students—and that focus be directed at virtualizing most library services, with easy access through the internet for all students on and around campus.