The article investigates current trends in open access provision across 10 libraries and institutional repositories of Ukrainian agricultural HEIs. These HEIs were selected based on their national and international rankings and compared using Similarweb data. A 3-month analysis (from March to May 2024) of user website access through Similarweb revealed that Dnipro State Agrarian and Economic University, Poltava State Agrarian University, Dmytro Motornyi Tavria State Agrotechnological University, and Vinnytsia National Agrarian University emerged as leaders. State Biotechnological University, Polissia National University, and Bila Tserkva National Agrarian University stood out among institutional repositories. User visit geography indicated activity from Ukraine and other countries like Poland, Norway, Russia, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Austria. Website visitors were predominantly women aged 18-65, with young adults (18-34) forming the majority.

The dynamics of users’ access to their libraries and institutional repositories is determined, taking into account geographical, gender, age, and communication channels (direct, organic search, referrals, email, and social). Direct access and regular search were identified as the primary communication channels for users. Search topics varied based on the HEI’s profile and educational offerings. Users accessed library and institutional repository websites from various sources, including university websites, GPT chat, other university resources, different social networks and resources, etc.

The study highlights the role of HEI activity in social networks and messengers (particularly Telegram) in promoting their libraries’ and repositories’ scientific resources. To further enhance access, Information Culture should be considered as a component of staff, teachers, and user training on open access provision. Recommendations are provided to increase library and institutional repository engagement, ultimately enhancing access to their resources within the global research and education landscape, potentially improving their Webometrics Ranking of World Universities position.

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