ABSTRACT
Masrin Dai (22180053). The Utilization of Digital Reference Services of Institutional Repositories in Supporting the Completion of Final Assignments by Students of the Faculty of Islamic Studies at Universitas Muhammadiyah Ponorogo. Advisor I: Dr. Katni, M.Pd.I and Advisor II: Nanang Cendriono, S.S., M.Pd
The development of information technology has driven changes in library services, particularly in the provision of digital reference services through institutional repositories. However, in practice, the utilization of repositories by students is still not optimal, both in terms of information retrieval and their use as academic reference sources in completing final assignments.
This study aims to examine how digital reference services in institutional repositories are utilized to support the completion of final assignments by students of the Faculty of Islamic Studies at Muhammadiyah University of Ponorogo. This research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive research design. Data collection techniques include interviews, observations, and documentation involving final-year students and librarians. Data analysis is conducted through the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing.
The results show that the utilization of digital reference services in institutional repositories by students occurs in three main forms: as a source for searching theories and concepts to strengthen the research framework, as a reference in determining research methodology through the review of previous theses, and as a guide in structuring the writing systematics of final assignments. Factors influencing this utilization include ease of system access, availability of relevant collections, students’ information literacy skills, and support from academic supervisors. Furthermore, the impact of repository utilization demonstrates a positive contribution to the quality and successful completion of final assignments, indicated by stronger theoretical frameworks, more appropriate methodological choices, and more systematic academic writing. Nevertheless, some challenges remain, such as limited availability of up-to-date collections and the suboptimal information retrieval skills among some students.

Keywords : Repository Utilization, Digital Reference Services, Undergraduate Thesis, Students