Library Resource Utilization and Its Influence on the Reading Habits of Postgraduate Students at the Redeemed Christian Bible College

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between library resource utilization and the reading habits of postgraduate students at the Redeemed Christian Bible College (RCBC). As postgraduate education demands advanced levels of academic inquiry, the library remains a central hub for accessing scholarly information, supporting research, and fostering consistent reading behaviour. However, the extent to which students use available library resources both print and digital plays a significant role in shaping their reading patterns, frequency, and preferences. The study adopts a descriptive survey design to examine how access, adequacy, relevance, and user-friendliness of library resources influence students’ motivation to read, their engagement with academic materials, and their overall reading culture. Data were collected from postgraduate students across various programmes in the institution using a structured questionnaire. The analysis focuses on identifying levels of resource utilization, the types of resources most frequently accessed, and the challenges that hinder optimum library engagement. Findings reveal that students who actively utilize library resources demonstrate stronger reading habits, engage more with academic literature, and show higher levels of research productivity. Conversely, limited use of the library often due to inadequate digital access, outdated materials, or insufficient awareness correlates with weaker reading consistency and reduced academic engagement. The study concludes that enhancing library resource availability and accessibility is vital for strengthening reading habits among postgraduate students. It recommends improved digital resource provision, regular information literacy training, and increased awareness of available library services to promote sustained academic reading culture in theological institutions like RCBC.