Assessing Digital Repository Use in Medical Research Libraries: A Case Study

Thesis Abstract

The increasing reliance on digital repositories to facilitate access to biomedical research outputs necessitates an empirical assessment of their utilization within medical research libraries, where such digital platforms are integral to scholarly communication and knowledge dissemination. This study aims to evaluate the usage patterns, user perceptions, and factors influencing digital repository engagement in a prominent medical research library, with the specific objectives of quantifying repository access frequency, identifying user satisfaction levels, and examining variables such as user expertise, digital literacy, and perceived repository quality. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative analysis of access logs and survey data with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews to provide a comprehensive understanding of digital repository use. The population comprises approximately 3,500 registered users, including clinicians, researchers, medical students, and academic staff, of the selected medical research library over a period of one calendar year. A stratified random sampling technique was employed to select 350 respondents for the survey, ensuring representation across user categories, while all users' access logs during the period were analyzed. Data collection instruments included a structured questionnaire adapted from established instruments on digital library use, validated through a pilot study and expert review to ensure content validity, and interview guides for qualitative data. Access logs were retrieved and anonymized to analyze frequency, duration, and types of repository interactions statistically. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis for the quantitative data, while thematic analysis was employed to interpret qualitative interview findings, aligning with Braun and Clarke’s methodology. Expected findings indicate that digital repository use is significantly positively correlated with user digital literacy and perceived repository quality, with research outputs and clinical guidelines being the most downloaded materials. Regression analysis is anticipated to reveal that factors such as prior training, perceived usefulness, and ease of access account for a substantial proportion of variance in repository usage. The qualitative insights are expected to illuminate barriers to use, such as limited awareness, inadequate training, and technical challenges, alongside motivating factors such as perceived relevance and institutional support. The study also anticipates identifying gaps in user training and repository features that could enhance engagement, informing targeted improvements. This research contributes to knowledge by providing an empirically grounded understanding of digital repository utilization within a specialized medical research context, applying the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and Information–Motivation–Behavioral Skills (IMB) theories to interpret user behavior. The findings inform library administrators and policymakers on strategies to promote optimal utilization, including tailored training programs, interface improvements, and awareness campaigns. Furthermore, the study offers a replicable methodological framework for similar assessments in other health sciences institutions. Concluding, the research underscores the critical role of user-centered enhancements and strategic capacity building in strengthening digital repository engagement. It recommends increased institutional investment in digital literacy programs, ongoing user feedback mechanisms, and continuous technological upgrades aligned with user needs, thus fostering greater adoption and maximizing the repository’s potential to support research and clinical practice. Future research avenues include longitudinal studies to assess the impact of implemented interventions and comparative analyses across different medical institutions to benchmark best practices.