Provision of clearer use guidelines

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 82 views

Introduction

The University of North Sumatra Library is one of the largest and most prestigious libraries in Indonesia, serving a vast number of students, faculty members, and researchers. With the increasing demand for digital information and online resources, the library has implemented an online public access catalog (OPAC) system to facilitate users in searching and accessing library materials. However, the effectiveness of this system depends on the user's perception and satisfaction with its functionality and usability. This study aims to evaluate the user's perception of the OPAC online system at the University of North Sumatra Library, with a focus on identifying areas of improvement and providing recommendations for enhancing user experience.

Methodology

This study employed a descriptive approach, involving all 33,720 students of the University of North Sumatra. The sampling technique used was sampling action, which is tailored to the research population. A total of 100 respondents were selected using the Slovin formula. The data collection instrument consisted of a questionnaire that assessed users' satisfaction with the OPAC system, their ability to find library materials independently, and their perception of the system's usability and functionality.

Results

The results of this study showed that most users (86%) were satisfied with the use of online public access catalog and the shelving system provided to help them in finding library materials. This indicates that the OPAC system has fulfilled the expectations of most users in facilitating information search. However, the results also revealed that there were 14% of users who felt unsatisfied, which showed that there was still room for improvement in this service.

In addition, 90% of users claimed to have been able to find library materials they needed independently through OPAC. However, 10% of other users still had difficulty in doing so. This can be a concern for library managers to conduct more intensive training or socialization related to the use of OPAC to users who still feel difficulties.

Discussion

The results of this study suggest that the OPAC system has been effective in facilitating users in searching and accessing library materials. However, there are still areas of improvement that need to be addressed. The library must continue to strive to improve service quality and ensure that all users, especially those who are less experienced, can use this system optimally. Provision of clearer use guidelines and the implementation of workshops can be an effective step in improving users' skills in using online public access catalog.

The findings of this study also highlight the importance of user-centered design in the development of library systems. The OPAC system should be designed to meet the needs and expectations of users, taking into account their level of experience and familiarity with digital technologies. By doing so, the library can ensure that its users have a positive experience and can access the information they need efficiently and effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study provides a clear picture of the user's perception of OPAC in the University of North Sumatra Library. The results of this study suggest that the OPAC system has been effective in facilitating users in searching and accessing library materials. However, there are still areas of improvement that need to be addressed. The library must continue to strive to improve service quality and ensure that all users, especially those who are less experienced, can use this system optimally.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Provision of clearer use guidelines: The library should provide clearer use guidelines for users, including step-by-step instructions on how to use the OPAC system.
Implementation of workshops: The library should implement workshops to train users on how to use the OPAC system, particularly for those who are less experienced.
User-centered design: The OPAC system should be designed to meet the needs and expectations of users, taking into account their level of experience and familiarity with digital technologies.
Continuous evaluation and improvement: The library should continuously evaluate and improve the OPAC system to ensure that it meets the changing needs and expectations of users.

Limitations

This study has several limitations that should be noted. Firstly, the sample size was relatively small, which may not be representative of the entire population of users. Secondly, the study only focused on the user's perception of the OPAC system, and did not take into account other factors that may influence user experience, such as the quality of library materials and the availability of resources.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on exploring other factors that influence user experience, such as the quality of library materials and the availability of resources. Additionally, studies should be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the recommendations made in this study, such as the provision of clearer use guidelines and the implementation of workshops.

Conclusion

Q: What is an Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC)?

A: An Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) is a computerized catalog system that allows users to search and access library materials, such as books, journals, and other resources, online.

Q: What is the purpose of evaluating the OPAC system?

A: The purpose of evaluating the OPAC system is to assess its effectiveness in meeting the needs and expectations of users, identify areas of improvement, and provide recommendations for enhancing user experience.

Q: Who is the target audience for this study?

A: The target audience for this study is students, faculty members, and researchers at the University of North Sumatra, as well as library managers and administrators who are interested in improving the OPAC system.

Q: What methods were used to collect data for this study?

A: The data collection instrument used in this study consisted of a questionnaire that assessed users' satisfaction with the OPAC system, their ability to find library materials independently, and their perception of the system's usability and functionality.

Q: What were the results of this study?

A: The results of this study showed that most users (86%) were satisfied with the use of online public access catalog and the shelving system provided to help them in finding library materials. However, 14% of users felt unsatisfied, and 10% of users still had difficulty in finding library materials independently.

Q: What are the implications of this study for library managers and administrators?

A: The findings of this study suggest that library managers and administrators should continue to strive to improve service quality and ensure that all users, especially those who are less experienced, can use the OPAC system optimally. Provision of clearer use guidelines and the implementation of workshops can be an effective step in improving users' skills in using online public access catalog.

Q: What are the limitations of this study?

A: This study has several limitations that should be noted. Firstly, the sample size was relatively small, which may not be representative of the entire population of users. Secondly, the study only focused on the user's perception of the OPAC system, and did not take into account other factors that may influence user experience, such as the quality of library materials and the availability of resources.

Q: What are the future research directions for this study?

A: Future research should focus on exploring other factors that influence user experience, such as the quality of library materials and the availability of resources. Additionally, studies should be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the recommendations made in this study, such as the provision of clearer use guidelines and the implementation of workshops.

Q: How can users provide feedback on the OPAC system?

A: Users can provide feedback on the OPAC system by completing the questionnaire used in this study, or by contacting the library directly with their suggestions and comments.

Q: What are the benefits of using the OPAC system?

A: The benefits of using the OPAC system include the ability to search and access library materials online, the ability to find library materials independently, and the ability to access a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and other materials.

Q: How can users get help with using the OPAC system?

A: Users can get help with using the OPAC system by contacting the library directly, or by attending workshops and training sessions provided by the library.