Assessment of Social Media Influence on Reading Habits of Undergraduate Students of Library and Information Science in Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nig.:

Abstract

The study examined the impact of social media on the reading habits of undergraduate students in Library and Information Science at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State. Using a correlational research design, data was collected from 101 final-year students (93% response rate) through a structured questionnaire. The study found that students frequently used social media platforms like Twitter, WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube, Telegram, TikTok, and Instagram. These platforms were primarily used for academic purposes, such as preparing for exams, writing research projects, and staying informed about course-related events. Positive effects of social media included quick access to information, communication with lecturers, and sharing academic resources. However, negative effects included distractions from studies, privacy issues, and involvement in academic misconduct. The study concluded that excessive social media use has a strong, positive relationship with students' reading habits. It recommended that universities provide better reading resources and environments, establish guidelines for social media use, and encourage students to view social media as a complementary academic tool rather than a distraction.