An elegant evening recognizing the dedicated service of librarians and library staff was hosted by the UPLB Library at the Charles Fuller Baker Hall on Nov. 24, 2023. 

The recognition ceremony was held in celebration of the 101^st UP System Libraries Founding Anniversary which had the theme “Centennial Resilience: Navigating Excellence and Public Service in UP System Libraries.” 

Dr. Agham C. Cuevas, vice chancellor for academic affairs, graced the ceremony and recognized in his welcome remarks the role that library personnel have played in UP Libraries over the past century as guardians of wisdom who preserve the collective knowledge of generations past and present.

Chancellor Jose V. Camacho Jr. also highlighted in his video-recorded inspirational message that the celebration was an opportunity to remember the amazing people who made outstanding contributions to the Library in the past and recognize those who have carried the legacy of service to the present.

Dr. Mary Ann M. Ingua, University Librarian, said in her opening remarks that the special occasion was originally intended to coincide with the 100th-year celebration of the UP System Libraries on March 9, 2022. However, the celebration was postponed due to the pandemic.

The UPLB Library had decided to push through with the recognition ceremony in 2023 to honor the dedication of the library staff and appreciate the people behind the success of every program and service of the University Library. Among the awardees were those who have served long in the University.

Roilan A. Dumaraos of the BIOTECH Library and Connie S. Orte from the College of Engineering and Agro-industrial Technology Library were awarded for 12 and 10 years of service, respectively. They received their plaque of recognition with their family members.

15 awardees were recognized for at least 20 years of service to the University and were given an Oblation statue as a special token.

The awardees were Evangeline L. Alcantara, Manuel T. Alcantara, Virginia P. Alcantara, Lucila M. Andal, Bayle G. Baguioan, Armando O. Catelo, Arnel H. Concibido, Lina C. Copioso, Nestor B. De Pasion, Elsa DR. Escalante, Adelina M. Esperante, Emelyn R. Espiritu, Ester C. Sangalang, Andriette S. Valdez, and Dr. Ingua.

Espiritu, a university researcher at the main library, delivered a short response on behalf of her fellow awardees.

The awarding ceremony was followed by a special number by Gladys S. Domingo and Jarien G. Galorio who rendered a duet with the song “Tuloy pa Rin.” The LibForce dancers also performed the “Modern Waltz Dance“ during the intermission number.

At dinner, the University Library showed an audiovisual presentation showcasing the rich and dynamic history of the UP System Libraries.

In the second part of the event, the University Library gave plaques of recognition to the special awardees in the Committee and Individual categories.

For the Committee category, the Innovation Excellence Award was given to the User Education Training Series Committee. The award recognizes the team who has shown outstanding innovation in library programs and services. 

The Committee of the Year Award was presented to the Committee on Relationship-Building Engagements and Events for their contributions and exceptional teamwork, leadership, and accomplishments throughout the year.

Fernando E. Reyes, a utility worker from the main library, received the Early Riser Excellence Award under the Individual category. He was honored for his exemplary dedication and for consistently exhibiting outstanding punctuality, diligence, and unwavering passion for his work.

Innovation Catalyst Awards were also given to those who have significantly sparked innovation, creativity, and positive change in the University Library.

Renz C. Cao, a librarian at the College of Veterinary Medicine Library, received an Innovation Catalyst Award under the sub-category of User Education and Training Services. 

Edwardo S. Barrera, Jr. received the Innovation Catalyst Award under the sub-category Digital Innovation while Jarien G. Galorio was honored with the award under the sub-category Promotion and Marketing. Barerra serves as an IT staff while Galorio is a librarian at the UPLB Main Library.

As a finale number, all the service staff awardees danced the Cotillion De Honor.

In closing the momentous evening, Dr. Ingua recognized the ceremony as a celebration of excellence, unity, and unwavering support for the cause of the UP Libraries.

The event was also graced by Rolando T. Bello, vice chancellor for administration, the college deans, and the directors of the unit libraries. Mariz C. Diagan, a staff from the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, served as the master of ceremony.

The recognition ceremony was held in line with the celebration of the 89th National Book Week and also marked the 33rd Library and Information Services Month. (Virginia P. Alcantara)