Utilization Patterns, Preferences and Satisfaction Levels of Undergraduate Medical Students Regarding Library Services at Bacha Khan Medical College Mardan

Background: Libraries are integral to the academic achievement of medical students by offering access to vital resources and an optimal study environment. Analyzing library usage patterns can enhance facilities and services to more effectively meet students' educational requirements. Objective: This study seeks to evaluate the utilization patterns, preferences, and satisfaction levels of undergraduate medical students concerning library services in Bacha Khan Medical College Mardan. Study Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of the Study: Main Library, at Bacha Khan Medical College & Mardan Medical Complex Mardan from 1st November 2021 to 31st December 2022. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with one hundred undergraduate Bacha Khan Medical College Mardan students who were chosen at random. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect data, which included questions about demographics, how often and for what reasons people visited the library, which resources they favored, and how satisfied they were overall. The purpose of this statistical study was to determine the variables that influence the frequency of library visits by employing descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis in SPSS version 25. Results: The majority of students (50%) were aged 21-23 years, with a slightly higher proportion of males (55%) than females. 90% of students had library memberships, and 40% attended regularly, with self-study (45%) being the predominant reason for library use. Textbooks (70%) and online journals (60%) were the most commonly consulted materials. Satisfaction was highest for library operation hours (80%), while Wi-Fi and internet access had the lowest satisfaction levels (50%). Regression analysis demonstrated that study year (p = 0.001), daily study hours (p = 0.000), and satisfaction with resources (p = 0.005) significantly influenced library visit frequency, although residential status (p = 0.165) was not a significant predictor. Conclusion: The study indicates that library utilization is highly associated to study habits, academic level, and resource satisfaction. Enhancing Wi-Fi accessibility and the availability of digital resources could significantly improve students' experiences and involvement with the library.