ISSUES CONCERNING STUDENTS’ INTEREST IN VISITING THE LIBRARY AT MA NURUL ISLAM AIR BAKOMAN

Abstract

School libraries serve as learning resource centers that support academic activities and the development of students’ literacy. However, the utilization of the MA Nurul Islam Airbakoman Library, Pulau Panggung District, Tanggamus Regency, remains suboptimal, as indicated by students’ low interest in visiting the library. This study aims to analyze the internal and external factors contributing to students’ low library visitation interest and to examine the influence of internet use as an alternative source of information. The study employed a descriptive qualitative method with a case study approach. Nine informants participated in the study, consisting of eight students and one library manager selected purposively. Data were collected through non-participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation, and were analyzed through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. Data validity was ensured through source and technique triangulation. The findings indicate that students’ interest in visiting the library remains relatively low, as reflected in the absence of a consistent habit of using the library and the tendency to visit only when specific academic needs arise. Internal factors include reading habits, motivation, information needs, and students’ perceptions of the benefits of the library. External factors are related to limited facilities, the comfort of the library space, and collections that are not yet fully relevant to students’ information needs. These conditions encourage some students to use the internet as an alternative means of obtaining information more easily and quickly. The findings confirm that low library visitation interest is not solely related to students’ willingness, but is also influenced by library conditions and changing patterns of information seeking in the digital era.