STATUS OF LIBRARIES IN THE FIRST AND SECOND LEGISLATIVE DISTRICTS OF LEYTE

Abstract

This paper presents the status of the 49 libraries in the first and second legislative districts of Leyte. It specifically discusses the profile of these libraries in terms of administration, library collection, services, budget, staff and physical facilities. In addition, it assessed the compliance of these libraries with the standards set forth in the Standards for Philippine Libraries (SPL), taking into account the different aspects previously mentioned. The descriptive method of research was employed. The data were gathered through questionnaires, interviews and library visits. The results showed that none of the libraries have fully complied with the standards specified in the SPL. A majority of the libraries lack qualified personnel to manage these libraries. Most of the libraries, especially school, and public libraries have weak and inadequate print and non-print collections. In addition, the services provided by these libraries were limited. Most libraries have inadequate facilities, including those for information and communication technology (ICT) and for control and security measures. Moreover, a number of libraries still experience budgetary limitations, which constrains their efforts to improve its current state.