Researcher: DIANA V. PADILLA
Course: Master of Arts in Library Science
School: University of Santo Tomas, Philippines
Subject Area: Library usage, Library services, Public
schools
Year of Graduation: 2009
Abstract:
The study assessed the profile of
seven (7) selected public elementary school libraries in Rodriguez, Rizal in
terms of their facilities, collections, and services and the corresponding
library utilization competencies of their pupils. Data were gathered through a
researcher-made questionnaire, referred to as the Library Knowledge Skills
Inventory (LKSI), which covered five domains, namely: library services, parts
of the book, use of reference materials, use of card catalog, and the use of
the Dewey decimal classification system. The researcher also made an ocular
inspection of the school libraries, conducted interviews with school
administrators, teachers and library personnel, and asked the pupils to rate
the effectiveness of their school libraries in terms of its Physical
Facilities, Holdings and Library Services. Three hundred twelve (312) grade six
pupils were involved in the study, although only 180 (57.68%) of them came from
schools (4 out of 7) with existing libraries. Data were treated in-depth with
the use of statistical tools such as percentages, ranking, mean, standard
deviation, chi square test of homogeneity, and one way analysis of variance.
Results revealed a seemingly low
level of competency of the pupils in library utilization as shown by their mean
percentage ratings in the LKSI (40.19 to 66.27). Ironically, the students gave
a "very good" rating to all the components of determining the effectiveness
of their school library despite the fact that these school libraries do not
seem to adhere to the Guidelines on the Implementation of School Library
Policies and Programs set by the Department of Education. Significant
agreements were noted in the pupils' assessment of their school libraries in
terms of the size of the reading area, seating capacity, ventilation system,
general and reference collection, library staff, orientation and circulation
services, and reader's guide. Significant differences were also noted in the
LKSI mean percentage ratings with regard to the physical condition of their
school libraries. Knowledge of library services was more evident when the
library is located at the second floor and non-profit materials are made
available. Presence of audio-visual materials enhanced their knowledge on the
parts of a book and skills in the use of reference materials and the Dewey
Decimal Classification System. Based on the results, a Library Instructional
Program must be developed to assist pupils so they can become more competent in
using their respective libraries and be effective users of information.
