Improving Research Services in the Academic Library: A Case Study

This study explored and documented the conduct of library use among the University of the Philippines Diliman, College of Science (CS) faculty members as well as their research needs and activities with the goal of formulating practical, sustainable and adaptable solutions to better support them in their research workflow. And how these results affect the library liaison’s roles and services in their respective libraries. The researchers have arranged group interview with the nine library liaisons to gain a better understanding of how faculty members utilize existing library services in their research activities, what library services best support their research activities, and the challenges and opportunities based on the library liaison’s past experiences. Also, the study used the CS library’s annual reports from Calendar Year 2012-2022, to pinpoint where the library liaisons can focus efforts on and the gap between library services. As a result, the study recommends the following: (1) continue the established faculty-library collaborative culture to bridge the gap and improve the subject-specific collection and research skills; (2) expand the library network and partnership within the college and the School of Library and Information Studies (SLIS) faculty members on matters related to ICT, research and other competencies/skills that may arise in the future; (3) prioritize the library liaisons’ strengths and areas of interests and invest in staff professional development; and (4) Develop an information system solution that will improve the research experience and satisfaction of the CS faculty members and restore the morale and confidence of the library liaisons in their service delivery.