LEVEL OF COMPETENCIES OF REFERENCE AND CIRCULATION LIBRARIANS IN SELECTED HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN MANILA: BASIS FOR TRAINING PROGRAMS OF CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (CPD) ACCREDITED PROVIDERS

This study assessed the level of personal and professional competencies of reference and circulation librarians using the National Competency-Based Standards by the Professional Regulatory Board for Librarians (PRBFL). A descriptive research method was used, employing survey questionnaire for the collection of data, 100 librarians from 18 academic libraries in Manila participated in the study. Findings revealed that respondents were found to be highly competent on seven indicators under Personal Competencies. However, respondents need trainings on the following: communication, leadership and cultural competencies. These indicators are important in order to become an effective leader and enable the professionals and organizations to work effectively. Findings suggest that respondents need to enroll in formal trainings/studies to further enhance their learning in promoting cultural heritage and services. Similarly, respondents are highly competent on three indicators under Professional Competencies. They are competitive as far as information tools and technologies are concerned. Thus, respondents adapt with the latest developments in information technologies. However, they are low in managing information organization, which consists of three indicators: public relations/marketing and promotion; collaboration/networking and facilities management. Training program was proposed to further enhance the competencies of the respondents. This is solely intended for CPD providers, in accordance with the requirements of PRBFL. This includes significant documents like: proposed titles/topics for training with specific course objectives stating competencies to be gained from the program.