"A library is not a what, but a who": the role and effects of the Alfredo F. Tadiar Library in the reduction of information poverty for social development

Date

6-2022

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology

College

College of Human Ecology (CHE)

Adviser/Committee Chair

Dhino B. Geges

Committee Member

Wilfredo P. Awitan

Abstract

Information poverty is due to the lack of material access and skill to benefit from information. Community-based libraries combat these by providing information materials and services catering to the needs of disadvantaged groups. This study aimed to examine how the Alfredo F. Tadiar Library (AFTL) in San Fernando, La Union contributed to the reduction of information poverty among its users. The variables the study looked into were the user-staff relationship, connectivity of the library and the quality of its information services. Using a mixed-methods–case study design (MM-CS), the study employed a thematic analysis of documents of the library and key informant interviews (KII) from its staff to model the library. In the dissemination of a survey form and the implementation of focus group discussions (FGD) among library users, the characteristics of the library that contribute to the increased social well-being of respondents was revealed. The results indicated that the Alfredo Tadiar Library is considered a community-based library because it serves to be an information center free for all to use. It is governed and financed through a non-profit organization originating from the local community rather than a state or private institution. The AFTL had agreeable contributions to the reduction of information poverty, met information needs and provided opportunities for development among its users. This was most attributed to the strong user-staff relationship and high levels of relevant information provided by the AFTL. It was notable that library users already had low levels of information poverty to begin with; consequently, this led to high rates of literacy and valuation in using the library. Altogether, these added value to the increased social well being of users.

Language

English

LC Subject

Libraries, Community libraries, Information poverty

Location

UPLB College of Human Ecology (CHE)

Document Type

Thesis

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