International students' experiences of university libraries and librarians

H Hughes - Australian Academic & Research Libraries, 2010 - Taylor & Francis
H Hughes
Australian Academic & Research Libraries, 2010Taylor & Francis
International students constitute a significant proportion of the Australian university
population, and thus of the university library-using population. Drawing on qualitative
research findings, this paper discusses the library-related experiences and perceptions of
international students at two Australian universities. While the students' previous library use
was limited, at their host university they experienced challenges using the library, often
associated with unfamiliarity. However, they generally viewed their Australian university …
International students constitute a significant proportion of the Australian university population, and thus of the university library-using population. Drawing on qualitative research findings, this paper discusses the library-related experiences and perceptions of international students at two Australian universities. While the students’ previous library use was limited, at their host university they experienced challenges using the library, often associated with unfamiliarity. However, they generally viewed their Australian university library and library staff in a positive light. The findings support recommendations for developing library professionals’ awareness of international students’ and their library use.
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