Seminary libraries' compliance with standards and implementation of programs and services in response to users' needs: Inputs to a library development plan

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the compliance of seminary libraries in Negros with Commission on Higher Education (CHED) standards across key areas such as vision, mission, administration, human resources, collection management, services, information technology infrastructure, physical facilities, financial resources, and linkages. It also assessed the implementation of library programs and services based on Association of Theological Education in South East Asia (ATESEA) standards to address user needs. Significant differences among seminaries in compliance levels with CHED standards and in program and service implementation according to ATESEA standards were also examined, as well as significant relationships between compliance and implementation. A descriptive quantitative research design was employed. Respondents included seminarians and library personnel from five major seminary schools in Negros, selected via total enumeration. Data were collected using validated and reliable modified CHED and ATESEA assessment tools through face-to-face surveys. Interrater reliability was ensured by an expert. Descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean) and inferential analysis (One-Way ANOVA and Pearson correlation) were utilized. Results indicated that seminary libraries showed moderate compliance with CHED standards, while implementation of programs and services based on ATESEA standards was almost fully implemented. Significant differences existed among seminaries in both compliance and implementation levels. A strong positive correlation was found between compliance with CHED standards and program/service implementation. Based on these findings, a library development plan was proposed to address gaps in resources, technology, and services, aiming to enhance overall library performance.