Use of Reference Materials by Undergraduate Students Studying Library and Information Science for Better Research in University Libraries in Dharwad District

Introduction: This study looks at how undergraduate students studying Library and Information Science at Dharwad University use reference materials in their library. The purpose is to help improve their research abilities by understanding how well they know these resources, how they use them, why they use them, and the difficulties they face when using both printed and digital sources. This study is important because it gives useful insights into how LIS students carry out their research. This can help librarians and teachers to create better collections of resources, develop more effective training, and ultimately help students do better research in the Dharwad area. Objectives of study: The main goals of this study are to find out how much students know about the types and availability of reference resources in their university libraries.It also aims to study how often students use different reference resources, the purposes they use them for, and the ways they access them, such as online or in print. Research methodology: The study used a survey-based descriptive research design. A total of 100 responses were collected and checked for accuracy. From the responses and analysis, it was found that there are reference and information services and resources available to students in the Uttar Kannada district. Data analysis: The study looked at undergraduate students studying Library and Information Science in Dharwad. It found that the main areas of interest were awareness and access to resources, how students use materials, their purposes for using them, and the challenges they face along with factors that influence their choices. Finding: Most of these students use print resources like dictionaries, encyclopedias, and textbooks for their studies and assignments. They don’t use electronic resources such as bibliographic databases and online tools as much as they should. Recommendation: The paper suggests that university libraries should organize campaigns and workshops to teach students how important and simple it is to use tools like databases, e-journals, and online library catalogs. Conclusion: Undergraduate students in Library and Information Science in Dharwad use both traditional and electronic sources for their research. However, they generally prefer print materials over electronic ones.