Library mobile applications in university libraries

Abstract

Purpose

This research aims to integrate the unified theory of acceptance and usage of technology (UTAUT) with task technology fit to explain users' behavioral intention of using library mobile applications in university libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

By integrating the unified theory of acceptance and usage of technology (UTAUT) and the moderator of task-technology fit, this research proposes a library mobile applications usage intention model. The study data come from a convenience sample of 363 undergraduate and graduate students. A structural equation modelling (SEM) technique was conducted to identify causal relationships.

Findings

Results showed that the UTAUT model fits the data well. The empirical data reveal that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions determine users' behavioral intention of using library mobile applications. As a determinant in the UTAUT model, the moderating effect of task-technology fit is also significant. Moreover, individuals with different levels of task-technology fit will strengthen or weaken the relationships of determinants in the intention to use library mobile applications in university libraries.

Research limitations/implications

This study addresses self-reported behavioral intentions as part of the survey; as a result, the data may have introduced inaccuracies. The implications of the proposed library mobile applications success model are discussed.

Practical implications

University librarians should reinforce the efficiency of library mobile applications to influence users' willingness to use such applications.

Originality/value

This study combines both the constructs of the UTAUT model and task-technology fit to consider intentions to use library mobile applications in university libraries.

Citation

Chang, C.-C. (2013), "Library mobile applications in university libraries", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 31 No. 3, pp. 478-492. https://doi.org/10.1108/LHT-03-2013-0024