Awareness of Online Reference Services on Students’ Information Literacy at Bicol College Main Library

Abstract

Online reference services play an important role in enhancing students' access to reliable academic resources. This study aimed to assess the awareness of online reference services and their impact on students' information literacy at the Bicol College Main Library. Specifically, the study evaluated the library's current status in terms of availability of online reference, library infrastructure, service utilization, and promotion of online services and awareness. It also determined the level of students' awareness and literacy skills in navigational abilities, database familiarity, information retrieval, and technological proficiency. Students demonstrated a "Less Aware" level of proficiency across all variables, which highlights significant gaps in digital literacy. The primary challenges identified included insufficient training, inadequate communication, limited access, and lack of integration into the curriculum. Based on these findings, an action plan was developed focusing on training programs, improved communication strategies, enhanced technological infrastructure, and curriculum integration of online reference services. There were recommendations given, which include workshops to address digital literacy gaps, upgrading of library resources, and strengthening collaboration between library staff and faculty to maximize the use of online tools. The researcher also recommends future studies that could explore the long-term impact of these services on academic performance and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented strategies.