Research on Information Science and Public Libraries

Assessing the Feasibility of Financial Literacy Programs for Children in Public Libraries: A SWOT Analysis

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Maryam Omidkhoda 1
Zahra Khajeali-Jahantighi 2
Rasool Toodar 3

1 Ph.D. in Knowledge of Information Science, Iran Public Libraries Foundation, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Knowledge of Information Science, Payam Noor University, Tehran, Iran

3 Department of Knowledge of Information Science, To.c., Islamic Azad University, Tonkabon, Iran

10.61882/publlij.2025.2075511.1048
Abstract
Purpose: The present study aimed to assess the feasibility of implementing financial literacy educational programs for children in public libraries and to formulate appropriate strategies for this purpose using the SWOT analysis model.
Methods: This applied research employed a mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) approach. Data were collected through documentary studies and semi-structured interviews with 10 experts (including professors of library and information science, experts from the Iran Public Libraries Institution, children’s librarians, and a finance professor). Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic content analysis, and quantitative data were analyzed using the Delphi technique and a weighting process within the SWOT framework.
Results: The findings indicated that the total weighted scores for internal factors (strengths and weaknesses) and external factors (opportunities and threats) were 3.86 and 3.29, respectively, both exceeding the theoretical average of 3.00. This demonstrates the superiority of internal strengths (such as a commitment to public education, attractive children's spaces, and creative programming capability) and the dominance of external opportunities (such as family acceptance and their increased awareness) over threats and weaknesses. The most significant weakness was identified as limitations in educational facilities, and the most critical threat was the weak national infrastructure for financial literacy. Based on this analysis, the four strategic categories (SO, ST, WO, WT) were formulated.
Conclusion: The results show that public libraries in Iran possess adequate capacity and a favorable strategic position to enter the field of children's financial literacy education. Success depends on initiating step-by-step, creative, and low-cost programs while simultaneously attracting partnerships and resources to address infrastructural barriers.

Keywords

Financial literacy education
Feasibility study
Children
Public libraries
SWOT Analysis
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