Why Are Filipino Academic Librarians Reluctant to Do Research? Investigating the Realities

Abstract

In the Philippines, the need for librarians to conduct research is both statutory and personal. Despite the impetus, few Filipino librarians embark on research. This study attempts to describe the lived experiences of librarians focusing on the angle that limits them to conduct research. Interviews were conducted online with 7 academic librarians from 3 private universities in Iloilo City. Facts about the reality formed from the respondents’ experiences answered the essential question why librarians are reluctant to conduct research. Five major themes emerged: (1) research competency; (2) inadequate formalized support from the administration for librarians; (3) research mentorship; (4) library routine work/multitasking functions; and (5) coping with self-pity and disappointment. The findings from this study, which is anchored on interpretivism, provide insights to a different perspective of investigating the realities in a developing country delving into a deeper discussion on the reasons behind their reluctance.

Keywords

• academic librarians
• research output
• research support
• research competency
• phenomenology