Distance and Online Learners and Library Anxiety: An Exploration into the Causes, Impact, and Recommendations for Practice

Abstract

Research surrounding library anxiety is plentiful; however, few studies have focused on distance or online learners and library anxiety. This article provides an overview of the construct library anxiety within distance learners and how library anxiety may impact their usage of academic library resources and services. First, it will explore library anxiety, its definition, library anxiety theories, models, research, development and validation of library anxiety scales, as well as prevention and reduction strategies. Second, this article will explore studies concerning distance and online learners within academic libraries and library anxiety and strategies for minimizing it. Finally, this article will offer additional areas for future research.

Keywords:

• Library anxiety
• distance learners
• online learners

Acknowledgements

The author would like to thank Dr. Sharon Bostick, Dr. Doris Van Kampen, and Dr. Cantrell Johnson for their encouragement, support, and guidance.

Conflict of interest

The author has no conflicts of interest to disclose.