Role of Social Networking Sites in Enhancing Student Engagement with Library Services

Abstract

The emergence of Social Networking Sites (SNS) has greatly revolutionized the communication and information-sharing culture in the academic realm where the libraries have been forced to embrace these sites in the delivery of their services and interacting with the users. This paper will discuss how Social Networking Sites can be used to promote the use of library services by students, particularly students of the SSMRV College. A survey research approach was employed to collect data by assessing 178 students enrolled by BBA, BCom, BCA and the Mcom programmes in the age bracket of 19-24 years using a structured questionnaire based on a Google Forms platform. The research examined the level of awareness, usage habits, purposes, perception, and the problems associated with the SNS-based library services among the students. The results demonstrate that the awareness and attitude to the use of SNS in libraries are high, and such platforms as WhatsApp and Instagram are the most desirable. The SNS were identified to be very useful in enhancing awareness on library resources, enhancing communication and promoting active involvement in library activities. Nevertheless, such challenges as information overload, inconsistent updates, internet connection problems, and privacy were also mentioned. The researchers conclude that the strategic and systematic application of Social Networking Sites can play a very critical role in increasing the interest of students and making academic libraries relevant in the digital age.

Keywords: Social Networking Sites, Academic Libraries, Student Engagement, Library Services, Social Media, User Survey

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