Digital natives in the library: Understanding information-seeking behaviour among generation Z undergraduates in Bayero University, Kano

This study investigates the information-seeking behaviour of Generation Z undergraduate students in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Natural Sciences at Bayero University, Kano. Employing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from a structured questionnaire administered to a random sample of 210 students, determined using the Krejcie and Morgan sampling table. The research aimed to identify the patterns, preferred tools, and challenges associated with information seeking among Gen Z students within the academic library environment. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, including frequency counts, percentages, and mean scores. Findings indicate that the majority of students initiate their search for information via general-purpose search engines such as Google, with peer support being more frequently utilized than assistance from library staff. While Google Scholar and online databases were identified as the most preferred information sources, institutional resources like the OPAC and library website were less commonly used. Key challenges reported include slow internet connectivity, difficulties in locating physical and digital materials, and limited awareness of available e-resources. The study concludes that despite the high digital proficiency of Gen Z students, their use of academic library electronic resources remains limited, largely due to infrastructural and literacy-related barriers. Recommendations include improving digital infrastructure, strengthening user education programs, and redesigning and actively promoting library tools to better match the evolving search behaviours of this generation. These measures are essential for ensuring that academic libraries remain accessible, relevant, and responsive to the needs of contemporary student populations.