As it turns 99: City’s public library to buy books, PCs

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City Public Library celebrated its 99th year anniversary last Saturday with a series of activities geared towards the promotion of reading and other academic-related endeavors.

The activities include launching of Basa Kabataan, Watercolor Painting 101 with Teacher Joan in the Reading Room, Storytelling with Nanay Evert at the Children’s Corner, Stargazing with Indiana Aerospace University (IAU) together with University of San Carlos (USC), and Projection Mapping by Youth for a Livable Cebu (YLC) at the public library grounds.

Zonta Club 2 of Cebu, Basadors, Reading Ruffolos, and YLC sponsored the activities.

During the celebration, only North District Representative Raul Del Mar graced the event.

Public Librarian Maria Rosario Chua said that there was a positive impact when they decided to operate the public library for 24 hours.

“Sa 100th year, we hope nga modaghan pud ang among ma-served na constituents sa Cebu City and we focus on promoting and strengthening the reading habits of children through various activities. That’s why we launched Basa Kabataan, which serves as a countdown sa 100 years,” Chua said.

The public library also offers digital literacy and braille training for the visually-impaired individuals which is open not only for the city, but for everyone outside the city.

This activity will start today.

She also added that there are plans to expand the facility’s seating capacity, purchase more books and personal computers.

“We want to reach out far-flung barangays.  Kanang moadto na gyud ta didto dili lang kay maghuwat ta diri nga muabot sila diri. Hopefully, ma-open ang mga barangay reading centers,” Chua said.

Chua also added that there are CCTV cameras, security personnel, and Barangay Intelligence Network volunteers who help in maintaining the safety of library goers.

Jayce Christopher Tanguamos, a reviewer for the Civil Engineering Board Exam this May 6 and 7, is grateful for the 24-hour operation of the library.

He added that he can study well because the library personnel have maintained silence and that he feels safe in studying as well.

He suggests though that the library should be extended, offer conference rooms for group meetings, and purchase more engineering books.

Rejene Mangubat of Barangay Apas and Monica Keena Cauban of Capitol Site are also grateful that the public library is tapping different organizations and conducted stargazing activity.  They felt blessed to have seen the constellation Nebula.

They added that it is good for the youth to interact and participate in different activities and gain more knowledge such as the stargazing, rather than spending their time scrolling social media sites. — Mary Kristine M. Cameros, CNU Comm Intern (FREEMAN)