Assessment of services, resources, and facilities in the local college libraries: Basis for a library development plan

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the services, resources, and facilities of local college libraries in Negros Occidental to support the formulation of a comprehensive library development plan. Employing a descriptive-comparative research design, data were collected through a validated, researcher-developed questionnaire administered face-toface to 538 respondents during the academic year 2024-2025. The participants included 390 bonafide students officially enrolled in the second semester, 90 faculty members, and 58 non-teaching staff from three local college libraries, identified as College Library A, B, and C. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequency, percentage, Chi-Square, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal-Wallis Test, with strict adherence to ethical standards and data privacy protocols. The status of the library was evaluated based on standards set by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and accrediting bodies, focusing on the adequacy, accessibility, and user satisfaction regarding services, resources, and facilities. Results showed that students were the primary users of the libraries, followed by faculty and staff. Female users outnumbered males, and most respondents reported frequent library visits. Among the three libraries, College Library C had the highest number of users. Overall, the libraries were rated "Very Good" in terms of services, resources, and facilities. Despite the favorable ratings, significant differences were observed in users' perceptions when grouped according to sex, frequency of visits, and library location. Facilities and resources differed greatly among these categories. These results emphasize the necessity of user-responsive strategies and ongoing evaluation. In order to address the issue, a thorough library development plan was put forth determined to improve the library, support overall quality in accordance with institutional objectives, and sustain superior academic performance.