Academic libraries and distance learners: A study of graduate student perceptions of the effectiveness of library support for distance learning

Programs of higher education have been characterized by students enrolled in a postsecondary course of study after graduation from high school. Traditionally, these students continue in full-time study until their coursework is completed. Distance learning is part of a trend toward developing nontraditional programs to meet the needs of a changing student population. Library support is an essential part of any academic program, including those offered through distance learning. The purpose of this study was to determine if the general academic libraries of The Texas A&M University System (TAMUS) serve the information needs of graduate students enrolled in distance learning courses within the TAMUS member institutions.; This study consisted of two parts: a structured interview with librarians and a survey questionnaire administered to graduate students. A structured interview was conducted with librarians to collection information on existing library services provided to distance learners, institutional support provided for library distance learning programs, and the role of assessment and planning in the library services delivered to distance learners. Additionally, a survey of a selected distance learning graduate student population was conducted to assess the information needs of a selected segment of the distance learning graduate student population as well as evaluate their awareness of and satisfaction with existing library services for distance learners.; Analysis of the data collected provided the following findings. In general, library practices do provide support for distance learning students; however, the extent of these services varies from institution to institution. The services provided are primarily those available through the Internet indicating that the libraries have not made genuine adaptations in their services to meet the needs of distance learning students. The data from the graduate student questionnaire suggest that, in general, most students do not perceive that the library at the institution at which they are enrolled meets their information needs.; As distance learning continues to expand and develop, innovative methods must be found to provide information resources to students studying at a distance. The results of this study may provide insight for assessing and improving library services in the future.