ATTITUDE OF USERS TOWARD VIRTUAL REFERENCE SERVICES OFFERED BY SA’ADATU RIMI COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, KANO (SRCOEK) LIBRARY

ABSTRACT This research was carried out to assess the attitude of users toward virtual reference services offered by Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kano (SRCOEK) Library. The objective of the study is to find out the level of users’ satisfaction with virtual reference services rendered by Central library of Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kano., identify the tools use by the library understudy for virtual reference service and to investigate barriers hindering the success of virtual reference services, at the College library understudy. The sample size of the study were 354 users in Sa’adatu Rimi College who were randomly selected. 354 questionnaires were distributed, filled and returned only 350. The findings revealed that majority of the respondents 51% are highly certified with Virtual Selective Dissemination of Information, 61% of the respondents opined that Microsoft Team platform is used by SRCOE library for virtual reference services. The findings also revealed that 69% of the respondents agreed that high cost of text-based interaction affecting the service. The study concluded that these services are highly valued for their convenience and accessibility, especially in the context of modern digital learning environments. Users appreciate the ability to engage with library staff remotely, enabling them to resolve academic queries efficiently without having to visit the library physically. The following recommendations were made; SRCOEK Library should invest in upgrading its technological infrastructure to ensure stable internet connectivity and modern equipment for both users and library staff. This would help improve the quality and reliability of virtual reference services, regular training sessions should be conducted for library staff to enhance their skills in using virtual reference tools and improve their ability to assist users effectively. This would help reduce delays and improve the accuracy of responses provided and the library should launch campaigns to raise awareness about virtual reference services among students and staff, particularly targeting those who are less familiar with these services. This would help increase engagement and ensure that all users benefit from the available resources.