📄 Abstract
This study investigates the barriers that hinder effective library utilization among students and teachers in educational institutions. Recognizing the library as a cornerstone of academic success and intellectual development, the research explores why its services are often underused. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with a purposive sample of students and teaching staff from secondary and tertiary institutions. Thematic analysis identified several recurring challenges: outdated or insufficient learning resources, inadequate physical infrastructure, limited digital literacy, time constraints, and insufficient assistance from library staff. Moreover, institutional policies and a general lack of awareness regarding library services further compounded these issues. The study concludes that improving accessibility, modernizing resources, training users, and fostering a supportive library culture are critical steps to enhancing library engagement. These findings offer practical insights for educators, librarians, and policymakers seeking to improve the academic utility of library services.These findings underscore the urgent need for systemic improvements in library services. Enhancing the availability of digital and physical resources, upgrading infrastructure, integrating user training programs, and adopting user-friendly library policies are essential steps toward creating a more inclusive and accessible library environment.
🏷️ Keywords
📚 How to Cite:
Veronica S. Palacay , BARRIERS TO EFFECTIVE LIBRARY UTILIZATION: A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF STUDENT AND TEACHER EXPERIENCE , Volume 12 , Issue 5, may 2025, EPRA International Journal of Environmental Economics, Commerce and Educational Management(ECEM) , DOI: https://doi.org/10.36713/epra21868