Use of Electronic Information Resources in a Special Library in Ethiopia

The study was undertaken to investigate the utilisation of electronic information resources of the UNECA library in Addis Ababa Ethiopia and the challenges faced by the different users. A quantitative research method with a sample survey research design was applied. A population of 600 users, of which 500 were internal users (UNECA and United Nations agencies staff members) and 100 were external users (researchers, students, or non-staff members). 20% from each category was taken as a sample. An online questionnaire was distributed through email to collect data. The total response rate was 74%. The results showed that 92% of the respondents were aware of the availability of the electronic resources of the Library. 94% found the electronic resources useful. 84% confirmed that the resources were easy to use. High numbers of the respondents positively agreed that the quality of their outputs and performances have improved as a result of these resources. The challenges associated with the resources include information overload, access restriction with IP address, lack of training and remembering login credentials. 68% reported that the library services met their expectations. The study recommends the development of strategies for enhancing accessibility and discoverability of the resources, providing information literacy trainings for all users, and finding alternative measures for IP restriction access.