On September 5, 2024, Azeez Adebamgbola Adeoye successfully defended his PhD thesis at the  Department of Library, Archival and Information Studies, University of Ibadan,  Nigeria, focusing on the use of Digital Library Resources (DLR) by doctoral students in public universities across Southwestern Nigeria. His research explore the critical role DLR plays in doctoral research, identifying key challenges and offering practical insights for improving resource engagement.

Research Findings:

Adeoye’s study revealed that doctoral students primarily use e-journals and e-books, but underutilize essential tools like library websites, Online Public Access Catalogs (OPAC), and institutional repositories. The study uncovered three significant factors affecting DLR usage: *Information-Seeking Anxiety (IsA), Digital Literacy Skills (DLS), and User Perception (UP)*

Despite their frequent use of digital resources for writing journal articles, conference preparation, and personal development, students face challenges like **slow internet speeds**, **information overload**, and **compatibility issues with mobile devices**. The rapid obsolescence of library software also hindered students from maximizing the full potential of digital library resources.

Nevertheless, Adeoye found that doctoral students demonstrate **high levels of digital literacy** and maintain **positive perceptions** of digital resources. However, moderate **information-seeking anxiety** still limits some students’ ability to navigate and effectively use these resources.

Implications for Stakeholders:

1. University Administrators:

Universities should enhance internet infrastructure, increase awareness of the full range of DLR tools, and integrate digital literacy programs into their curricula. Upgrading bandwidth and making DLR access more seamless are crucial for improving doctoral students’ research experiences.

 2. Libraries: Libraries must improve user experiences by streamlining search processes, updating software regularly, and offering specialized training on how to navigate digital resources. Collaborating with academic departments to integrate DLR tools into daily research activities can further support student engagement.

3. Policymakers:  Policymakers should prioritize funding for digital library infrastructure and ensure the standardization of DLR platforms across universities. Consistent policies on digital resource access and maintenance are essential for optimizing academic resource availability.

4. Doctoral Students:  Students need to actively engage with all available DLR tools, expand beyond e-journals and e-books, and work to reduce information-seeking anxiety through training and practice. Continuous development of digital literacy will further enhance their academic and research outcomes.

5. Future Research: Researchers should continue to explore trends in DLR use, particularly how emerging technologies can improve access and user experiences. Investigating how DLR impacts academic success across different fields of study or student demographics will provide more targeted solutions for boosting engagement.

Adeoye’s research highlights the critical role that Digital Library Resources play in academic success for doctoral students in public universities in Southwestern Nigeria. By addressing factors such as information-seeking anxiety, improving digital literacy, and enhancing user perceptions, institutions can significantly improve research outcomes and foster a more productive academic environment.

The findings offer a roadmap for universities, libraries, policymakers, and students to optimize digital resource usage, ultimately benefiting the broader academic community.

OptimistScholar congratulates Dr. Azeez Adebamgbola Adeoye on this remarkable achievement and wishes him continued success on his academic journey.

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