Southern Leyte State University partners with Brgy Tampoong; Opens Community Library
On September 6, 2024, the Community Library Management and Cultural Enrichment Project (CLiMCEP) hosted a significant Book Turnover Ceremony at Barangay Tampoong, Sogod, Southern Leyte. This event represented a major step in enhancing the local library's resources, fostering an environment that promotes learning and cultural development through the donation of books and educational materials. The ceremony was attended by CLiMCEP project leaders and members, barangay officials, community residents, Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) faculty and staff, the University President, and a representative from Alpha Phi Omega.
The donation of books played a crucial role in addressing the community’s educational needs and nurturing a culture of reading and knowledge-sharing. The event also highlighted the collaboration between various sectors in their commitment to advancing literacy and education within the community.
In his welcome address, Mr. Michael Richard Rojo, representing the barangay chairman, expressed his appreciation to all who participated in the project. He emphasized the vital role a library plays in enhancing the reading skills of the community members and extended heartfelt thanks to the project members for helping them establish their very first community library.
Ms. Ruda P. Palen, the project leader, delivered an inspiring turnover message, underscoring the value of collaboration in making high-quality educational resources accessible to the community. The formal turnover ceremony was symbolized by the signing of the property transfer report by University President Dr. Jude A. Duarte and Mr. Alejandro Bagares, the Committee on Education Chair, with assistance from Geanrose L. Colonia, Director of the Learning Commons and Library Services.
Representing Barangay Tampoong, Mr. Rojo, the SK Chairman, expressed deep gratitude and excitement for their community being chosen as the recipient of the project. He emphasized how honored and thankful the barangay officials were to receive this library as their first major project and assured that the donated books would be carefully maintained and fully utilized.
A standout moment in the program was the Message of Support from University President Dr. Jude A. Duarte. He reaffirmed the institution’s ongoing commitment to supporting library initiatives. He emphasized not only the importance of accessible learning resources but also the value of integrating a museum within the library to further enrich the community’s cultural experience. Dr. Duarte underscored that such efforts are crucial in promoting community growth, fostering cultural development, and nurturing lifelong learning opportunities for all.
The program concluded with a closing message from Ms. Adel Grace Gaudicus, the Research and Extension Coordinator of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, who reflected on the success of the event. She thanked all the attendees, organizers, and donors for making the ceremony possible and expressed optimism about the library's future impact on the community.
Following the program, a ribbon-cutting ceremony officially opened Barangay Tampoong’s first community library. This event not only formalized the donation of valuable books but also strengthened the ties between the community, donors, and educational institutions
The Community Library Management and Cultural Enrichment Project remains a symbol of hope, advocating for literacy, learning, and cultural awareness. With continued support, the project is poised to contribute significantly to the educational and cultural progress of the community. This also aims to contribute to the following Sustainable Development Goals, SDG 4: Quality Education; SDG 5: Gender & Development; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities Goal, and SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals.
