Evaluating the Effectiveness of Digital Library Apps in Reducing Information Access Gaps Among University Students in Peru

Abstract

The increasing reliance on digital library applications in higher education has significantly reshaped how university students in Peru access academic resources. While digital libraries provide on-demand access to scholarly articles, e-books, and research databases, disparities in technological infrastructure, digital literacy, and institutional policies continue to affect their effectiveness in bridging information access gaps. This study evaluates the impact of digital library applications on university students in Peru, examining accessibility, usability, and engagement patterns across urban and rural institutions. Through surveys, usage analytics, and case studies, this research highlights the key advantages of digital libraries, including enhanced search efficiency, remote accessibility, and AI-driven research support, while also identifying persistent challenges such as connectivity limitations, complex user interfaces, and digital literacy gaps.
Findings indicate that urban students benefit more from digital library platforms due to better internet access and institutional support, while students in rural regions continue to rely on traditional libraries due to infrastructural constraints. The study also explores best practices for increasing student engagement, including faculty integration of digital resources, digital literacy training, and mobile-friendly platform enhancements. Finally, recommendations for policy interventions and technological innovations, such as low-bandwidth digital access solutions and AI-powered academic assistants, are proposed to improve digital library utilization. The study concludes that while digital libraries have great potential to enhance information accessibility, their effectiveness remains contingent on infrastructure development, institutional adoption strategies, and student training programs.