The University Library marked November 2024 with a vibrant celebration of the 90th National Book Week and 34th Library and Information Services Month, showcasing innovative events and inspiring creativity and academic excellence.

The celebrations, held from November 25 to 29, featured the themes “Magbasa. Mangarap. Magdiwang.” (Read. Dream. Celebrate.) and “LIBvocacy: Unity Towards Inclusive and Empowered Librarians. “They highlighted the role of libraries in promoting research and lifelong learning.

The festivities kicked off with the dual launch of the Best Theses/Dissertation Exhibit and the Book Talk event, held in the lobby of the Main Library and the General References and Information Services Section. The opening program set the stage for an engaging week of activities.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Mary Ann M. Ingua, university librarian, underscored the library’s role in research and academic excellence, while Dr. Agham C. Cuevas, vice chancellor for academic affairs, inspired attendees with his message about libraries as beacons of knowledge and innovation.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Best Theses/Dissertation Exhibit followed, where exceptional student researches were recognized. 

Following this, Raphael M. Ferrer, a faculty member at the College of Human Ecology, captivated the audience with his Book Talk session “Creating Worlds: The Magic of Tsikiting Stories.” 

Ferrer shared his journey of crafting educational stories for children and showed how creativity knows no bounds. His interactive activities inspired participants to explore unconventional approaches to storytelling.

On November 27, the spotlight turned to the Library Promotional Video Competition Deliberation. The contest challenged UPLB students to create compelling videos promoting the library’s resources and services.

The panel of judges included Dr. Ingua, Christopher N. Calamlam of the College of Development Communication, and John Glen S. Sarol from the Office of Public Relations.  

The competition garnered significant interest from UPLB students, particularly those from SPCM 10 V and W classes, which were guided by Elizabeth Segura-Krueger and Maybelle P. Hollanda, respectively.

The winners were announced during the culminating program. April Keith Senina’s group emerged as champion, while Gabrielle Bailey Fuentes’ group claimed the first runner-up spot, and Allyssa Rose Gupit’s group secured the second runner-up position. 

The top three winners and seven consolation prize recipients were awarded official UL merchandise and gift certificates from DTRI. The competition showcased the library’s resources and highlighted the talent and innovation of UPLB students.

The celebration concluded on November 28 with the Research Symposium that was held at the REDREC Auditorium. 

The symposium featured esteemed speakers, including Aries John Enardecido from UP Rural High School and two instructors at UPLB, Paul Allen B. Yabut of the Department of Economics, College of Economics and Management and Allysea T. Concepcion of the Institute of Statistics, College of Arts and Sciences. 

Enardecido’s session challenged participants to rethink academic writing as a form of social action and critical thinking. 

Yabut shared his research on workplace discrimination and emphasized the importance of perseverance in research. 

For her part, Concepcion discussed her groundbreaking study on forest carbon stocks and highlighted the significant role libraries played in her research journey.

The symposium encouraged dialogue across disciplines, offered insights into academic research, and shared a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of scholarly pursuits.

The 2024 NBW/LISM celebration drew participants from various UPLB colleges, showcasing the university’s commitment to academic excellence. Through diverse programs and activities, the event successfully highlighted the library’s vital role as a hub for knowledge, creativity, and community engagement. (Lorman D. Hidalgo)