Use of E-Books Among Undergraduate Students: A Case Study of Covenant University Library

Chapter One

1.1 Background of the Study

E-books, or electronic books, are digital versions of printed books that can be accessed on computers, tablets, and mobile devices. They offer flexibility, convenience, and wide accessibility, allowing students to read, search, and interact with content without being limited by physical library space (Aina, 2019). In higher education, e-books have become an essential tool to support learning, research, and self-directed study.

Covenant University Library has integrated e-books into its collection to supplement traditional print resources. These digital materials include textbooks, reference books, journals, and specialized research publications. Students can access these resources from library terminals, personal devices on campus, or remotely through the university’s network (Fawole, 2020). E-books provide students with instant access to materials, enabling them to study at their own pace and revisit content as needed.

The use of e-books offers several advantages. They reduce the physical burden of carrying multiple books, improve access to rare or specialized titles, and allow for keyword searches and bookmarking. Students can also benefit from interactive features such as hyperlinks, multimedia content, and annotations. Research suggests that e-books can enhance students’ learning experience, improve understanding of complex topics, and increase engagement with course materials (Ajiboye & Olojede, 2018).

Despite the advantages, challenges affect the use of e-books in Nigerian universities. Limited awareness, low digital literacy, poor internet connectivity, and inadequate devices can reduce utilization. Some students prefer print books due to reading comfort or habit, while others encounter difficulties navigating e-book platforms or downloading materials (Nwalo, 2020). Understanding the extent of e-book usage and its impact on learning is essential to optimize resource allocation and improve academic outcomes.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Although e-books are available in Covenant University Library, some students do not fully utilize them. Factors such as limited digital skills, inadequate training, lack of awareness of available e-books, and poor internet access can affect usage. Students may also encounter difficulties in downloading or navigating e-book platforms, reducing their effectiveness as a learning tool. These challenges can limit the benefits of e-books and affect students’ academic performance.

Furthermore, there is limited empirical evidence on how e-book usage influences students’ learning outcomes in Nigerian universities. Understanding students’ usage patterns, preferences, and challenges is necessary to improve access, increase utilization, and ensure that digital resources contribute effectively to academic success.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to examine the use of e-books among undergraduate students at Covenant University Library.

The specific objectives are to

1. identify the types of e-books available to students

2. assess the frequency and purpose of e-book usage among students

3. examine students’ perceptions and attitudes toward e-books

4. identify challenges affecting e-book usage

5. suggest strategies to enhance the use and effectiveness of e-books in supporting learning

1.4 Research Questions

The study seeks to answer the following questions

1. What types of e-books are available to students at Covenant University Library

2. How frequently do students use e-books, and for what purposes

3. What are students’ perceptions and attitudes toward e-books

4. What challenges do students face in using e-books

5. What strategies can improve the use and effectiveness of e-books in supporting learning

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study will benefit students, librarians, and university administrators. For students, the study will provide insights into effective e-book usage, enhancing research skills, learning efficiency, and academic performance. Students will also learn strategies to overcome challenges in accessing and using e-books.

For librarians, the study highlights patterns of e-book utilization, enabling them to design training programs, awareness campaigns, and user support services. Librarians can optimize digital collections to meet the specific needs of students and ensure that resources are relevant and accessible.

University administrators will benefit by understanding the importance of investing in digital library infrastructure, providing adequate devices, and supporting training initiatives. Effective use of e-books can improve the overall quality of teaching and learning, promote self-directed learning, and enhance research productivity. The study also contributes to the academic literature on digital learning resources in Nigerian universities.

1.6 Scope of the Study

This study focuses on undergraduate students at Covenant University. It examines the availability, usage, and impact of e-books on academic performance. The study also investigates students’ attitudes, perceptions, and challenges in using e-books. Postgraduate students and students from other universities are excluded. The study is limited to digital books available through Covenant University Library and does not include third-party or open-access resources outside the library system.

1.7 Definition of Key Terms

E-Books are digital versions of printed books accessible on electronic devices, allowing for reading, searching, and interaction with content.

Usage refers to the frequency and manner in which students access and read e-books.

Digital Literacy is the ability to use digital devices, platforms, and resources effectively for learning and research.

Academic Performance refers to students’ success in completing assignments, examinations, and research activities.

Challenges include barriers such as poor internet connectivity, limited awareness, inadequate training, or difficulty navigating e-book platforms.

Strategies are actions or plans designed to improve e-book access, usage, and effectiveness in supporting learning and research.