MANILA, (PIA) – Public libraries across the Philippines are playing a crucial role in combating illiteracy, with data showing a national literacy rate improvement and over 23 million patrons served in the past year.
National Library of the Philippines (NLP) Director Cesar Adriano announced this achievement during the 2024 Gawad Pampublikong Aklatan (GPA) awards ceremony held on Friday, March 22 in the City of Manila.
Director Adriano highlighted partnerships with over 1,600 public libraries and barangay reading centers, reaching a significant portion of the population.
NLP Dir. Cesar Adriano welcomes the attendees and awardees of the 2024 GPA
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the country's literacy rate climbed to 97 percent in 2023, a 1.2 percentage point increase over the previous five years. This progress aligns with the goals of the GPA awards, which recognize public libraries and librarians for their dedication to community service and literacy promotion.
“Public libraries are more than just repositories for books,” Adriano emphasized. "They are vibrant hubs for intellectual exploration and community engagement."
Themed "Ikaw, Ako, at ang Pampublikong Aklatan: Higit Aninnapu't Limang Taong Pagtutugunan," the GPA ceremony acknowledged the efforts of cities and municipalities in establishing libraries and fostering a culture of learning. Valenzuela City, for instance, received four awards for its innovative library design, overall performance, livelihood programs, and historical preservation initiatives.
Philippine Information Agency Director-General Jose Torres Jr., for his part, highlighted the broader impact of libraries, stating, "Books not only provide information but also open minds to new ideas, experiences, and perspectives."
Public libraries offer a diverse range of resources, including:
- Extensive collections of books and periodicals
- Digital resources and internet access
- Educational programs and workshops
- Outreach initiatives targeting individuals facing literacy challenges
These services empower Filipinos of all ages and backgrounds to navigate the complexities of modern life. By promoting reading and lifelong learning, public libraries act as agents of change, contributing to a brighter future for generations to come.
The 2024 GPA ceremony underscores the critical role public libraries play in fostering literacy and intellectual growth across the Philippines.
As the nation celebrates the achievements of these institutions, the commitment to improving access to education and building a more informed citizenry continues. (GLG/PIA-NCR)
