MERITOCRACY IN LIBRARIAN FUNGCTIONAL POSITIONS: A CONCEPTUAL STUDY OF PERMENPANRB No.55/2022 THROUGH THE LESSON OF JOSEPH KETT

Abstract

This study analyses the conceptual alignment between the merit system for functional librarian positions established by PermenPANRB No.55/2022 and Joseph Kett’s (2013) conception of merit. It examines how administrative merit, professional ethics, integrity, competency development, and social responsibility are connected within the institutional governance of librarians. The study employs a qualitative document-based analysis of PermenPANRB No. 55/2022 and relevant theoretical literature, with particular attention to provisions concerning performance assessment (Articles 19-27) and professional development (Articles 51-53). The findings indicate substantial alignment between the regulation and institutional principles of merit through formal qualifications, competencies, performance, achievement, career progression, and institutional oversight. Ethical and professional dimensions are also incorporated into the regulatory framework. However, the analysis identifies a reflective gap: the existing provisions do not explicitly establish a continuous mechanism for connecting assessment evidence with professional reflection, competency-gap identification, professional learning, social-professional impact, and subsequent improvement. To address this gap, the study proposes the Reflective Merit System Model, which connects administrative assessment with professional reflection, competency and professional development, social and professional impact, continuous improvement, and renewed merit assessment. The model retains quantitative evidence for recognition while extending its use toward professional learning and organizational development. The study contributes a developmental perspective to librarian merit governance by repositioning assessment from an administrative endpoint toward a mechanism for continuous professional learning, adaptive competency development, and improved public value in library services.