Gender Differentials in Library Use Pattern Among Students of Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa

Abstract

This study investigated gender differentials in library use pattern among polytechnic students from The Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa. Through a purposive sampling procedure, 300 students (male =150, female=150) were sampled for the study. Data was collected through the use of the questionnaire analysed using simple percentages. The result of this study revealed a general decline in-library use of both male and female respondents. However, the result suggests that male polytechnic students use the library more than their male counterparts. The result of this study also showed that most of the respondents reported that they use the library for assignments. More female students visit the library for assignments than male and more male students visit the library for examinations//test preparation. Finally, the result showed that most of the polytechnic students reported that they prefer electronic resources to printed resources. Concerning gender, more male prefer printed materials than female students. The researcher recommended, among others, that Polytechnic lecturers should always give their students assignments as this will lead to a corresponding increase in the frequency of library use.