Need assessment for Sirindhorn College of Public Health Chonburi Library development

Abstract

This study is a part of the larger library development project at Sirindhorn College of Public Health, Chonburi, with an aim to investigate needs for library development. The overall objective was to provide relevant information as an input to the SCPH-C Library Development Plan. Specific objectives were to: (1) identify possible needs for improvement of library services, (2) describe the perceived needs of Sirindhorn College of Public Health, Chonburi student and faculty on library services; and (3) identify and select needs that are high in demand and low in availability. This study applied a cross-sectional needs assessment design including quantitative and qualitative approaches to collect primary and secondary data. Identification of possible needs was facilitated by documentary research, open - ended questionnaire, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and panel discussions. Prioritization of needs was, then, facilitated by a survey with a structured questionnaire and in-depth interviews. Finally selection of needs was facilitated by panel discussions. The main results of this needs assessment were categorized into two groups, namely, first and second priority needs. The first priority needs were (1) information sources both printed and non-printed and subject-related contents (2) facilities in terms of Internet access and audio-visual aid. The second priority needs were (1) physical environment in terms of temperature and noise control and decoration, (2) services in terms of computer assisted search and shelf maintenance. The needs assessment should be able to provide useful information to the library development efforts at Sirindhorn College of Public Health, Chonburi. These development efforts should be based on the vision, mission, key performance indicators, academic library standards and selected needs. Multiple phases for library development are recommended.