Digital Empowerment for Gender Equity: The Role of Academic Libraries in Strengthening Women Students' Digital Literacy
Keywords:
Digital literacy, Gender equity, Academic libraries, Women Universities, Socio-economic determinants, Information literacy.Abstract
Digital literacy has become essential for women's economic empowerment and educational success. This study examines how academic libraries reduce digital literacy disparities among women students. Using cross-sectional survey data from 1,100 undergraduate women students across four Rajasthan women's universities, we constructed a Digital Literacy Index measuring digital tool proficiency, online service usage, and digital knowledge. Multiple regression tested two hypotheses: family income predicts digital literacy (H₁), and library access predicts digital literacy (H₂).
Key Findings:Both hypotheses are confirmed. Family income is the strongest predictor (β = 0.29, p < 0.001), with library access as a significant secondary predictor (β = 0.21, p < 0.001).The study contributes to human capital and information literacy theory by empirically validating institutional pathways to digital empowerment. Findings align with Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 5 (Gender Equality), providing evidence-based recommendations for university leaders, librarians, and policymakers.
