Factors Affecting Low Reading Interest Among Students at the Library: A Case Study of the Galagah Hulu Subsidized Muhammadiyah Elementary School

Abstract

Reading is a basic skill that is important in supporting student learning success, while the school library plays a strategic role as a center for learning resources and a means of strengthening a culture of literacy. However, in practice, school libraries are often underutilized. This condition is also seen in the Muhammadiyah Subsidized Elementary School Library in Galagah Hulu, where facilities are adequate, but the book collection is not well organized and students rarely visit because their academic needs are mostly met by textbooks. This study aims to identify factors that influence the low reading interest of students in the Muhammadiyah Subsidized Elementary School Library in Galagah Hulu. Initial observations indicate that although the library facilities are adequate, the book collection is not well organized and students rarely visit because their learning needs are generally met by textbooks. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach combined with a simple quantitative survey to identify structural, cultural, and motivational barriers. The research findings reveal that low reading interest is influenced by: (1) the availability of relevant reading materials and collection management; (2) students' study habits and the tendency to use the library only for assignments; (3) teacher support and the implementation of the school literacy program; (4) environmental factors and time constraints; and (5) students' internal motivation. Based on these results, the study recommends an integrated strategy in the form of collection arrangement, regular implementation of literacy programs, parental involvement, and strengthening the role of teachers and library management.