Perceived Librarians' Service Behavior and Library Anxiety as Correlates of Library Utilization Among Senior High School Students in Private University

Abstract: This study examined the extent to which perceived librarians’ service behavior and library anxiety are associated with library utilization among 295 senior high school students in a private university in Cagayan de Oro City. This descriptive-correlational study employed modified instruments and those designed by the researcher for data collection. The data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, with a particular focus on Spearman’s rho. The findings of the study revealed the following: the students viewed the librarians’ service behavior very positively, citing their professionalism, friendliness, and willingness to assist; the students experienced very low anxiety related to comfort in the library, moderate anxiety related to knowledge of library systems and mechanical aspects, and high anxiety pertaining to affective barriers; and the students had high utilization of the library’s print and electronic resources. Statistical analysis showed a significant positive correlation between perceived service behavior and library utilization. Additionally, a significant negative association was found between library anxiety and library utilization. These findings highlight the importance of librarians’ role in advancing service quality and in reducing library anxiety to promote full student utilization of library resources.

Librarians’ service behavior, library anxiety, library utilization, senior high school students, library engagement, school libraries

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