Southern Leyte State University Library Learning Commons Celebrates the 35th Library & Information Services Month with Culmination Activity

The Southern Leyte State University Library Learning Commons proudly marked the 35th Library and Information Services (LIS) Month, in conjunction with the 91st National Book Week, with a vibrant culmination program held on November 26, 2025, at 9:00 AM. This year’s national theme, “LACE UP: Libraries – A Hub for Cultural Exploration and Unity through Partnership,” guided the celebration toward meaningful cultural engagement, collaboration, and community empowerment.

The event opened with welcoming remarks from Ms. Jessa Laarni B. Espinas, Director of Student Affairs and Services. The highlight of the morning program was the keynote lecture of Dr. Mark Galdo, titled “Pamatbat: mga kwentong inilíhim ng mga Southern Leyteño.” His thought-provoking discussion emphasized the value of local narratives, heritage preservation, and cultural identity—perfectly aligning with the celebration’s focus on cultural exploration and partnership.

The morning activity also featured a collaboration with the Purposive Communication class of Mr. Rosello Cadavos, where students showcased their creative class presentations. In the afternoon, the celebration continued with another culmination activity in partnership with the Art Appreciation class of Ms. Geraldine Abella.

 

The afternoon session was opened by Ms. Geanrose Colonia, Head of the Learning Commons and Library Services, who underscored the significance of the 35th LIS Month and 91st National Book Week themes. She likened the theme “LACE UP” to preparing for new journeys—just as we lace up our shoes before moving forward, libraries connect ideas, experiences, and aspirations. They serve as spaces where knowledge meets imagination, heritage meets innovation, and individuals meet community.

A certificate-giving ceremony recognized outstanding dedication among library users across several categories:

  • Top Library Clients (Highest Attendance) – Student and Faculty categories

  • Top Users of the Open Learning Hub

  • Top Library Patrons (Most Borrowed Books) – Student and Faculty categories

  • Top Odilo Digital Library Users – Student and Faculty categories

Awardees came from SLSU campuses in Maasin, Sogod, San Juan, Tomas Oppus, Bontoc, and Hinunangan, reflecting the university-wide commitment to fostering a culture of learning, reading, and resource utilization.

LIS Month 2

As part of the LIS Month and National Book Week celebration, the Library Learning Commons also offered free coffee and snacks to all library clients from November 26–28, 2025, a gesture of appreciation for their continued support and engagement.

This year’s celebration not only highlighted the achievements of the library and its users but also reaffirmed the Library Learning Commons as a vital hub for education, cultural appreciation, and partnership-driven growth within the university community.

The celebration of the 35th Library and Information Services Month and the 91st National Book Week at Southern Leyte State University aligns with three key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

  • SDG 4: Quality Education – The event promoted literacy, lifelong learning, and equitable access to educational resources through student presentations, digital library engagement, and recognition of top library users.

  • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – By highlighting Southern Leyteño cultural stories and emphasizing heritage preservation, the celebration supported cultural sustainability and strengthened community identity.

  • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Collaborations with faculty, academic classes, and multiple SLSU campuses demonstrated strong multi-sector partnerships, reinforcing the library’s role in uniting the community toward shared educational and cultural goals.

Through these initiatives, the Southern Leyte State University Library Learning Commons continues to champion literacy, cultural appreciation, and collaborative learning—empowering the SLSU community to move forward together toward a more informed, connected, and culturally enriched future.

Print