Examining Employee Connectedness and Workplace Isolation in Academic Libraries

• Main Authors: Bundoc, Judeelyn S., Dorado, Mariella DC.
• Format: text
• Published: Animo Repository 2024
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_dlsplc/2024/schedule/14
• Institution: De La Salle University

ABSTRACT Purpose/objectives. This study aims to address these gaps in the literature. This exploratory research investigates the prevalence of workplace isolation and employee disconnectedness in academic libraries and identifies the underlying causes. Furthermore, it explores the interventions or strategies that library management can adopt to address these issues. Design, methodology, approach This study employed a cross-sectional survey design to obtain data from a sample of library personnel in two academic libraries using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire includes demographic questions and validated scales of workplace isolation and employee disconnectedness. The questionnaire also includes open-ended questions that allow the respondents to describe their experiences of isolation and disconnectedness and their preferred strategies and interventions on how library management would address these workplace issues to reduce their feelings of isolation and disconnection. Descriptive statistics and Spearman's Rho were employed for data analysis. Findings: Findings suggest academic librarians feel a strong sense of closeness and emotional connection to their workplace. Respondents generally enjoy their time at work, with some even considering the library a "friend,” indicating a supportive and collaborative work environment. The sense of trust, belonging, respect, and support within the organization and among co-workers implies that academic librarians in this study have confidence in the library's leadership. The statistically significant difference in connectedness and isolation scores across age groups, length of service, and personality preference is noteworthy. The relationships between length of service, employee connectedness and workplace isolation reveal a seemingly paradoxical correlation. The findings suggest that respondents with more experience tend to feel more connected to colleagues but may also experience higher isolation. Research limitations and implication: The results of this study have theoretical and practical implications for making libraries more inclusive, supportive, and engaging for all employees. This study's findings can inform the creation of programs and policies to enhance employee well-being and productivity, especially for remote and isolated workers. It provides empirical evidence of the detrimental effects of workplace isolation and employee disconnectedness on work productivity, proving the significance of social connectivity in boosting employee well-being. Keywords: workplace isolation, employee disconnectedness, academic libraries, employee well-being, workplace productivity