Exploring factors in library outreach program: a case study in academic library in the state of Kedah / Nur Amira Eliana Abd Halim

Library Outreach Program is an essential part of service of an academic library in support of its in-house, faculty, institutions, and also its graduate student research activities. The library outreach programs awareness and student self-exploration approach vs. library outreach approach has become a key issue which requires more in-depth research. Past studies, show that among the issues are budgeting, administrative, academic library users, environment and facilities, and materials in academic library. Therefore, in this study, the research aim to explore the factors that affecting academic library outreach program in Higher Learning Institutions in the State of Kedah was executed. In doing so, this study adopted a qualitative research method with multiple case study approach using a purposive sampling technique in six academic libraries in Higher Learning Institutions in the State of Kedah. The respondents are the six Head Librarian, one from each selected academic library; using an in-depth individual interviews for each respondent. This study found that financial, staffing, users, facilities, and resources and services are the most affecting factors that affecting academic library outreach programs in Higher Learning Institutions in the State of Kedah. It is suggested in this study that all Higher Learning Institutions should support their in-house academic library by providing a sufficient financial support, adequate staffing, physical facilities, and meeting academic community information needs to ensure the success of outreach programs.