Bringing libraries back to the community: National Library’s storytelling sessions spark love of reading

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As the number of public libraries dwindles across the country, the National Library of the Philippines (NLP), Project PEARLS, and The Asia Foundation’s Let’s Read program are working to ignite the love of reading and lifelong learning in grassroots communities and inspire a library renaissance.

On Friday, this came in the form of an outreach program at the Project PEARLS Learning Center in Bocaue, Bulacan.

Reports indicate that since 2014, approximately 350 public libraries have closed down across the country, a trend only exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic.

As of July 2024, only three percent of local government units in the country have public or community libraries.

Despite an increased budget allocation for the National Library of the Philippines (NLP) aimed at supporting library development, many public libraries still need help.

Friday’s initiative, a highlight of the 34th Library and Information Services Month (LISM), was intended to call attention to the crucial role libraries play in shaping young minds and building stronger communities. Through a vibrant storytelling session, puppet show, and other interactive activities, the event aimed to foster early literacy and community engagement.

“With this event, we are here to say that libraries aren’t limited to storehouses of books; but it’s the community of people who love to read that make up a library. We hope that we were able to spark curiosity and promote a lifelong love for learning,” said Kim Garcia, Program Manager of Let’s Read at The Asia Foundation.

“Our hope is that all libraries, especially public libraries, can fulfill their role as incubators for dreams and contribute to improving learning outcomes. We believe that even the simplest community library represents one of the most cost-effective investments to create exponential value for individuals and the broader community,” said Jonathan Santos, Overall Chairperson of the 34th LISM.

Bridging traditional and digital literacy to empower communities

The event highlighted initiatives like Let’s Read Asia, which are transforming literacy access across the country, making thousands of locally relevant and culturally resonant children’s books available in Filipino, Hiligaynon, Central Bikol, and other local languages.

With the support of Let’s Read, the session also demonstrated how strategic collaborations and the integration of modern tools can create a brighter future for all.

Through its expansive free digital library, which allows for offline access and provides print-ready versions, Let’s Read enhances accessibility for young readers of all backgrounds and abilities, ensuring that children can explore stories that both affirm their lives and open doors to the world.

“At the end of the day, we don’t just want children to read; we want them to want to read and to enjoy it, and that means meeting them where they are, no matter what languages they speak. We believe that breaking down the language barrier is an important step in transforming their learning journeys,” Garcia also said.

“This partnership with the National Library reinforces our mission to make books accessible in local languages, strengthening literacy foundations and supporting the communities that need it most. By integrating digital tools like Let’s Read, we bring stories that resonate with children’s lives directly to their fingertips, ensuring that every child, no matter where they are, has access to quality literature.”

In a significant step towards improving literacy rates, Let’s Read and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Bataan and the Department of Education Schools Division of Bataan signed a memorandum of agreement to launch the ‘Cool Iskool’ Mobile Library in October.

The portable library, equipped with 107 tablets and 7 computers featuring Let’s Read, will travel to Abucay, Hermosa, Orani, and Samal to engage students, parents, and communities in reading and learning.

Through the Municipal Government of Pagayawan, Lanao Del Sur, Let’s Read also worked to translate 44 English and Filipino books into M’ranaw language. The program also led the training of 88 teachers, parents, and community leaders in storytelling.

To support Let’s Read’s mission and help bring books to more children, please visit facebook.com/LetsReadPhilippines.