Digital Resource Awareness, Access, and Satisfaction among Academic Library Users: Evidence from College and University Libraries in Shimoga District, Karnataka

The study explores the shift of academic libraries from print-focused to hybrid and digital models, assessing user behavior among college and university students in Shimoga district, Karnataka. Data from 400 respondents show that university students have greater awareness of and use of diverse digital resources than college students, who mainly use e-books and OPAC systems. Universities benefit from improved infrastructure and access to subscriptions, leading to higher user satisfaction. Significant differences in user experience were observed across colleges and universities, underscoring the importance of infrastructure and training. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to enhance access and user-centred services in academic libraries, suggesting that future research should broaden its geographic scope and include diverse perspectives to yield more comprehensive insights.