An Analysis Of Postgraduate Student's Demographics And Digital Literacy In The Use Of Online Databases Across Six Selected University Libraries In Southwestern Nigeria

In the digital era, postgraduate students' ability to effectively access and utilize online databases iscritical to their academic success. This study investigates the relationship between demographiccharacteristics and digital literacy skills among postgraduate students across six selected university librariesin Southwestern Nigeria. Grounded in the Theory of Planned Behaviour Ajzen, (1991), the research exploreshow factors such as gender, age, academic year, educational level, and state of origin influence students’digital resource usage. Quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a stratified random samplingtechnique to gather data from 358 respondents. Data collection was carried out using a structuredquestionnaire segmented into five key demographic areas. The results revealed that the majority ofparticipants were male (56.7%), within the age range of 25–54 (89%), predominantly masters degree holders(69.0%), and primarily in their first or second year of study (70.4%). Osun State had the highest state-levelrepresentation (37.4%). The findings indicate significant demographic influences on digital literacy, echoingtheoretical assumptions that personal and contextual variables shape behavioral intentions and actual use ofdigital technologies. Consistent with studies by Okafor & Ajibola (2020), Adebayo & Hassan (2022), andSmith & Nwankwo (2017), early-year students and middle-aged learners were more active users of digitalresources, highlighting the need for targeted support strategies. Based on the analysis, the studyrecommends improved digital literacy programs tailored to underrepresented groups, more balancedsampling in future research, and enhanced institutional efforts to bridge demographic gaps in access andcompetence. Overall, the research underscores the importance of integrating demographic insights intolibrary services and educational planning to foster inclusive and effective digital learning environments inhigher education.