Information Needs and Information Seeking Behaviour of Arabic Studies Students in University of Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

An adequate understanding of the information needs of Arabic studies students is crucial in providing library resources that will meet these needs. This study investigated the information needs and information seeking behaviour of Arabic studies students at University of Jos, Nigeria. It is a descriptive survey research which used the questionnaire and interview methods as instruments for data collection. The population of the study consisted of 29 Arabic studies students in three different years of study. Result of the study revealed Arabic studies students need information on their class assignments, followed by information on their next lecture topics. The students use their personal collections first when seeking information, followed by library textbooks and Arabic scholars' collections off campus. The library has inadequate Arabic studies reading materials and seating capacity. It is recommended, among other things, that adequate and relevant Arabic studies reading materials and enough seats be provided to meet the information needs of the Arabic studies students.