Students who are non-users of their academic library: A scoping review

Studies of university students who are non-users of their academic libraries could provide valuable insights to libraries, yet the extent of the research on this topic remains largely unexplored. This scoping review provides a comprehensive and systematic examination of the research literature in this area, exploring how authors have defined, researched, and addressed the phenomenon of non-users. A search for relevant studies was conducted using bibliographic databases, grey literature searching, and citation tracing. From 1864 records, 69 publications were identified for inclusion. Analysis of the included publications revealed a wide array of definitions for non-users and reasons for non-use. An overwhelming majority of studies (88%) included a survey or questionnaire, most described only a single mode of recruitment, and there was a surprising dearth of information gathered about the non-users themselves. There is currently still much to be learned about students who do not use their academic library and their reasons for non-use. Further qualitative research focused on the needs and motivations of non-users could allow for more nuanced segmentation within this group, and inform libraries' outreach and development efforts.