Bibliophobia and Its Effects on Library Patronage by Undergraduate Students of the Faculty of Physical Sciences, Bayero University, Kano.

Abstract

This paper aimed to assess bibliophobia and its effects on library patronage by undergraduate students of the faculty of physical sciences, Bayero University, Kano. The study was specifically guided by three research questions, focusing on determining the prevalence of bibliophobia among Bayero University academic library users, how bibliophobia affects the frequency and pattern of library patronage among students, as well as the strategies to be implemented to mitigate bibliophobia and enhance library usage. A descriptive survey was employed, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire.  The total population is five hundred and nineteen (519) Undergraduate Students of the Faculty of Physical Sciences, Bayero University, Kano. With a sample of 219 (42. %) drawn using the Krejcie and Morgan table. The random sampling technique was used to select the respondents. All 219 copies of the questionnaire distributed were completed and returned, yielding a response rate of 100%. The data collected were analysed using simple percentages for clarity and ease of interpretation. The findings of this study indicate that the majority of the respondents reported feeling anxious about using the library and tended to avoid it unless necessary. Many respondents revealed that finding materials in the library is challenging, making it a strong cause of avoidance and anxiety in using the library. Many respondents indicated that they rely more on lecture notes and internet sources than library books. Based on these findings, the study recommended that university management should provide an Enhanced Library Orientation program, organise periodic user education programs to strengthen students’ information literacy and reduce anxiety associated with library use, Librarians should increase one-on-one assistance and user-friendly signage to make information retrieval easier for students, and Libraries should harmonize digital platforms with physical holdings to appeal to tech-inclined students while retaining traditional academic rigour.