Abstract
This study aims to investigate the relationship between social media usage patterns and library visits for reading among university students. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted with 519 university students. The study employed a structured questionnaire to assess social media usage across seven platforms, daily time investment, common activities performed on social media, and frequency of library visits for reading. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis.WhatsApp emerged as the most frequently used platform, with 62.8% of students checking it often upon waking and 63.6% using it until midnight. 47.6% of respondents reported using WhatsApp for 5 or more hours daily. Despite high digital engagement, 74.2% of students still visit libraries to read either often (28.1%) or occasionally (46.1%). Multiple regression analysis (R = .373, R² = .139, p < .001) revealed that reading news on social media positively predicted library visits (β = .281, p < .001), while viewing pictures showed a negative association (β = -.139, p = .022). This study provides novel insights into the complex interplay between digital and traditional information-seeking behaviors among university students. It highlights how specific social media activities relate to traditional academic practices, offering valuable implications for educational strategies and library services in the digital age.
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