Informational Reading and Source Criticism in A Digital Culture Among University Students: The Role of The Library
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70112/ajist-2025.15.2.4323Keywords:
Digital Culture, Digital Era, Informational Reading, Source Criticism, LibraryAbstract
Technology and digital platforms have improved learning in several ways; however, in-depth reading, which is a vital aspect of human development, is decreasing drastically. The poor reading culture, caused by the increased use of these digital platforms by students, diminishes the impact of technology on learning. Although people read for several purposes, the core purpose is self-growth and development. This study aims to investigate the role of the library in promoting informational reading and source criticism among university students. A self-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 50 students and 15 academic librarians. The findings revealed that social media platforms are the most frequently visited among the listed digital platforms, and that multitasking online increases distraction and becomes detrimental to students’ reading abilities. The study further revealed that libraries play significant roles in ensuring that what students read online is credible and trustworthy. Libraries create digital resource aggregators for collecting credible sources on various topics for easy access, provide constant Online Reference Services (ORS), and create and curate reading lists that contain credible sources in various fields, among other strategies.
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