THE ROLE OF SCHOOL LIBRARIES AS A LEARNING RESOURCE FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

This study aims to describe the use of school libraries as a learning resource at BPK Penabur Metro
Christian Elementary School. This type of qualitative research uses a descriptive method. The data
collection technique was carried out by purposive sampling. The sources of research data are school
principals, library officers, educators, students, and parents. Data collection techniques are carried out
by means of observation, interviews, and documentation. The results of the study show that (1) the
management of the library is running well which can be seen from the existence of facilities, maintenance
and care, and book collections, even though the collection of nonfiction books itself has not reached the
ideal percentage, (2) the utilization of the library has been running well as can be seen from the opening
hours of services, the frequency of visits, the most used types of books, the access to loans offered, and the
existence of a reading corner in each class that supports, (3) the role of educators in the use of libraries
has been running well can be seen from the strategies and actions of educators in motivating students in
the use of libraries (4) the efforts of the principal in completing school library facilities, namely by
proposing funding sources to the foundation for the purchase of books, shelves, desks, and computers, as
well as inventorying and repairing damaged library facilities and provision of a comfortable school
library room, (5) the most inhibiting and supporting factors for the use of libraries are found in external
factors, namely the lack of spaciousness of the library building and limited visiting time as an inhibiting
factor and varied books and the enthusiasm of students as supporting factors.
Keywords: Utilization, Library, Learning Resources