November is National Reading Month in the Philippines, a time to highlight the importance of reading and celebrate institutions that foster literacy.
Among these important establishments is the Baguio City Public Library, a beloved resource for the community.
In a recent episode of Pag-Usapan Natin ‘To sa Bayanihan, a podcast partnership between Balitang Northern Luzon and the Baguio Chronicle, Outstanding Public Librarian awardee and City Librarian Easter Wahayna-Pablo joined hosts Ikit ng Bayan and Manang Lucy to talk about the library’s history, services, programs, and so much more.
A century-old legacy
The Baguio City Public Library traces its roots back to 1901 as a branch of the National Library of the Philippines. Its first librarian was an American, and the library survived significant challenges, including the destruction of Baguio during World War II.
Following the war, the library was restored under the leadership of then-Mayor Virginia Oteyza-de Guia.
Over the years, the library has been housed in various locations, from the post office, near the public market to even the Baguio City Hall. It now occupies a space that once hosted a sports complex, a transformation that underscores its role as a hub for intellectual and cultural development.
Today, the library is not just a repository of books and knowledge; it’s a community hub of sorts. Efforts are underway to digitize historical documents to preserve Baguio’s rich heritage.
A library for everyone
The library serves a diverse group of patrons, including students, families, professionals, and senior citizens. College students, who often have flexible schedules, are among the most frequent visitors on weekdays. As classes end, younger students and homeschoolers arrive, turning the library into a veritable hub of activity throughout the week.
“We welcome everyone,” Wahayna-Pablo emphasized. “The library is open to people of all ages and interests, offering a space to learn, grow, and connect.”
After all, the city public library’s official tagline is “Sa BCPL, lahat kasali” which roughly translates to “At BCPL, everyone is welcome or included.”
Activities and services
The library is far more than a place to borrow books and read newspapers and magazines. It offers a range of activities and programs designed to engage the community and promote literacy.
- English and Math Tutorials: Volunteers lead sessions to improve reading comprehension and numeracy skills.
- Storytelling Sessions: These encourage a love for reading through interactive question-and-answer activities.
- Book Lovers Club: Members can borrow books for free, fostering accessibility to literature without financial barriers.
- Mobile Library Project: The library collaborates with schools and brings books and learning materials.
- Mental Health and Family Programs: Initiatives like life talks every Friday address topics like family relationships and mental well-being.
Additionally, the library provides a digital hub with free internet and computer access, so even those without connectivity at home can use the tools and resources they need.
Challenges and opportunities
Despite its achievements, the library faces notable challenges. Limited staff and resources stretch its team thin, especially with a six-day workweek. Wahayna-Pablo herself works Mondays through Saturdays to help ensure smooth operations.
Another challenge is low reading comprehension among many community members. “We’ve noticed that people often miss key information in announcements,” she explained. To address this, the library actively promotes tutorials and encourages families to take advantage of its free services.
Some families still overlook the library’s potential as a learning space, which Wahayna-Pablo sees as a missed opportunity. She hopes to change this mindset by inviting more people to discover the library’s many resources.
A call to rediscover the pleasures of reading
The Baguio City Public Library is open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 5pm. As National Reading Month continues, Wahayna-Pablo encourages everyone to visit. “The library is like an open university,” she said. “It’s a place to learn, imagine, and grow together as a community.”
Amid the distractions of modern living, the library remains a center of learning, imagination, and social activities. So, whether you’re a student preparing for your exams, a professional seeking a quiet workspace, or a parent introducing your child to the joys of reading, the library is sure to have something for you.
This November (and beyond), take the opportunity to visit the Baguio City Public Library and rediscover the timeless value of books and community.
Let’s make reading a lifelong habit and continue to support spaces that nurture our minds and spirits.
