Management of Academic Libraries and Client Satisfaction Towards Digital Utilization: Basis for Monitoring Library Operations in SOCCSKSARGEN Region.

This study assessed the management of academic libraries and client satisfaction toward digital utilization as a basis for monitoring library operations in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region. A total of 144 respondents from six academic institutions—Mindanao State University, Sultan Kudarat State University, University of Southern Mindanao, Glan Institute of Technology, Malapatan College of Science and Technology, and Makilala Institute of Science and Technology participated in the study. Employing a descriptive-correlational design and guided by CHED Memorandum Order No. 22, series of 2021, the research focused on evaluating the effectiveness of academic library management and its correlation with digital service satisfaction.

Findings revealed a high extent of academic library management (M = 3.99, SD = 0.97), particularly in the area of library personnel (M = 4.33), indicating strong institutional support and staff competence. Client satisfaction with digital utilization was also high (M = 3.73, SD = 1.10), with perceived usefulness scoring the highest (M = 3.74), suggesting that digital resources are considered valuable in supporting academic work. A statistically significant and strong positive correlation (r = 0.868, p < 0.05) was found between library management and client satisfaction, highlighting the importance of effective library operations in enhancing user experiences.

While respondent profiles such as age, gender, type of institution, and job position did not significantly influence perceptions of library management (p = 0.080), these factors were found to significantly influence perceptions of client satisfaction toward digital utilization. A major issue identified was weak technological infrastructure, particularly internet and power connectivity, which hinders full digital transformation.

The study concludes that strong academic library management is essential to enhancing digital utilization and user satisfaction. However, addressing technological barriers remains a critical concern for improving library services in the region.

Academic library management; client satisfaction; digital utilization; digital services; user satisfaction; technological infrastructure

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