Commending Excellence and Empowering Minds: Highlights of the University Library Anniversary Celebration 2023

A month of learning, empowerment, and appreciation. – The University Library Diliman recently celebrated its anniversary through a series of events held on all Thursdays of March 2023. These events were organized by the Staff Training and Development Committee (STDC), in partnership with various standing committees of the University Library Diliman. The anniversary celebration featured three (3) online lectures and an employee recognition ceremony.

Eunice Ann Chua as the resource person during the online lecture last March 9, 2023.

The first lecture, entitled “Sino ka Dyan?! Understanding the Role of Media and Information Literacy in the Philippine Society,” was delivered by Ms. Eunice Ann Y. Chua, a Librarian at the UP Diliman Main Library which took place on March 9, 2023, via Zoom. The lecture aimed to help participants understand the importance of media and information literacy, especially in the age of social media and fake news. 

Kristine Joy Jaromamay during the online lecture last March 16, 2023.

The second lecture, “Magbabahagi: Kwento at Kwenta ng mga Kababaihan,” was organized by the Gender and Development Committee and was delivered by Ms. Kristine Joy C. Jaromamay, also a Librarian at the UP Diliman Main Library. The lecture happened virtually on March 16, 2023. 

(Left) Prof. Rhea Rowena U. Apolinario during the online lecture last March 16, 2023. (Right) Some of the zoom participants during the virtual photo opportunity with the resource speaker.

The final online lecture, “Werk It: How to Look Good and Feel Good at the Workplace,” was organized by the Health and Wellness Committee, and was delivered by Prof. Rhea Rowena U. Apolinario, a faculty member of the UP School of Library and Information Studies. The objective of the lecture was to promote health and wellness in the workplace, provide tips and techniques to help participants boost their confidence and self-esteem while on the job. The lecture happened on Thursday, 23 March 2023, 1:30 PM, also via Zoom. 

(Left) Rhoel Rondilla, Chair of the Library Awards and Recognition Committee, delivering the opening remarks. (Right) Elvira Lapuz, University Librarian, during her welcome message.

Lastly, the service award ceremony entitled “Sikhay sa Paglilingkod: 2023 Pagpupugay sa ULirang Kawani at Gawad para sa Katapatan ng Serbisyo” was hosted by the Library Awards and Recognition Committee (LARC) on March 30, 2023, at the Engineering Library Learning Commons II. The ceremony aimed to recognize the outstanding contributions of the outstanding University Library staff.

The 2023 University Library Service Awardees with  Rhoel Rondilla, Chair – UL LRC; Eimee Rhea Lagrama, Deputy University Librarian and Chair of UL STDC; and Elvira Lapuz, University Librarian.

The service awardees are as follows: 10 years of service – Jennylyn B. Domer, Ma. Christine S. Hernandez, Ms. Shiela F. Papa, and Maria Fe S. Valerozo; 15 years of service – Elmer T. Tolentino; 20 years of service – Antonio L. Angala, Jr.; 25 years of service – Ruben A. Rebaldo, Melvin A. Melencio, Grace B. Tabiendo; 30 years of service – Rhodora S. Tolentino, Mylene P. Rufin, and Lyle D. Manaay; 35 years of service – Apollo T. Villalonga, and Florisa C. Viray; and 40 years of service – Dolores A. Daguman, and Ruby C. Sarmiento. 

(Left) Markgil F. Aruta and (Right) Serlac De Leon with the University Librarian and LARC Chair during the recognition ceremony.

A heartfelt recognition to the two (2) exceptional individuals who have dedicated themselves to honorable service. In a separate segment during the program,  Markgil F. Aruta and Serlac G. De Leon were recognized for their faithful service (Pagkilala sa Katapatan ng Serbisyo) to the University Library.

The ULirang Kawani Awardees: Anthony N. Atuel, Liberato C. Javier, and Edwin Raymond R. Gerodias with STDC Chair, University Librarian, and LARC Chair.

The ULirang Kawani Awardees with their respective spouses.

The ULirang Kawani awardees are the following: Liberato C. Javier – Administrative Staff, Level 1; Edwin Raymond R. Gerodias – Administrative Staff, Level II; and Anthony N. Atuel – Professional Staff, Level I. The event celebrated the dedication and hard work of the Library staff in providing excellent services to the library, and the entire academic community. 

Photos taken during the event.

Overall, the University Library’s anniversary celebration was a success, providing opportunities for learning, reflection, and recognition. The online format allowed for wider participation and engagement, making the event more accessible and inclusive. The event highlighted the importance of continuous learning, women empowerment, personal growth, and recognition in creating a vibrant and dynamic academic community.