Examining the First Aid Knowledge Levels of Public Librarians: The Case of Erzurum

Abstract

Empowering library staff with basic first aid skills contributes to rapid response and risk management in emergency situations. The primary objective of this study is to determine the level of first aid knowledge among library staff working in public libraries in the province of Erzurum. The study adopted a quantitative research approach and utilized a descriptive methodology. As part of the research, a survey consisting of a total of 21 questions—9 of which were demographic and 12 of which measured first aid knowledge levels—was administered to 46 volunteer participants across 22 public libraries. An Ethics Committee Approval was obtained for the study, and an informed consent form was provided to all participants along with the survey. The data collected through the survey were analyzed using the R program.

The findings indicate that the vast majority of participants were male (73.9%), aged 25–59, with an average age of 41. It was determined that staff members, whose educational level was generally associate degree or higher (76%), were predominantly employed in the librarian cadre (45.7%). It was found that only a very small portion of the staff participating in the study (10.9%) held a first aid certification, while the others acquired knowledge on the subject through various information sources. It was determined that a large portion of the participants (60.9%) felt they needed first aid training. The average correct response rate (61.37%) for the 12 questions designed to assess first aid knowledge fell below the theoretical success rate specified in the regulations. The results of the chi-square test analyses revealed no statistically significant difference between participants’ perceived need for first aid training and their level of basic first aid knowledge (p > 0.05). Similarly, no significant difference was found between holding a basic first aid certification and knowledge level (p > 0.05). These results indicate that there is no direct relationship between individuals’ perceived need for training and their current knowledge levels; furthermore, holding a certification alone does not increase knowledge levels. Consequently, given that the vast majority of staff do not hold a first aid certificate, that the knowledge levels of participants who do hold a certificate are below expectations, and that the overall success rate falls below legal standards, it is recommended that first aid training for library staff be expanded and regularly updated.

Citation: Şenyurt, Özlem (2026). “Examining the First Aid Knowledge Levels of Public Librarians: The Case of Erzurum ”, Erdem, June, Issue:90, pp. 151-174.