Exploring Students’ Utilization of Online Public Access Catalog in the Learning Common

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a survey conducted to explore the usage of the online public access catalog (OPAC) at a higher educational institution in Pagadian City. The study randomly selected two hundred and forty (240) students from Saint Columban College as respondents from various departments. A qualitative case study design was employed to describe, analyze, and interpret the data collected. The researchers used survey questionnaires as the main instrument and ensured proper organization during their administration, including appropriate briefing and guidance. The findings indicate that the majority of library users rarely utilize OPAC services, attributing it to lack of awareness. Although some patrons have used the OPAC, there is room for improvement in promoting its use and increasing awareness among users. It is evident that students have a consistent need for library resources and are actively engaged in academic research or coursework requiring frequent access to library materials. The study further reveals that student participants are dissatisfied with the OPAC services and lack awareness about its functionalities. In conclusion, this study highlights the low usage of OPAC among library users and emphasizes the need to upgrade the current system to provide better services.