AS CITIES globally grapple with the digital inundation affecting young minds, Iloilo City has a forward-thinking strategy to cultivate a literate, educated populace by promoting reading by setting up accessible public libraries and reading hubs. This promotes literacy as a cornerstone of lifelong learning and civic engagement.
Literacy is foundational to personal and societal advancement. It is the bedrock upon which skills necessary for the 21st century are built, including critical thinking, empathy, and the ability to engage with diverse perspectives. In Iloilo, the push to expand library services across seven districts is a targeted move to embed these skills across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, ensuring that every child and adult has the opportunity to develop these crucial competencies.
Situating libraries and reading hubs in easily accessible locations is wise. The shift from a centralized library model at city hall to more localized reading hubs in districts like Jaro and La Paz enhances the reach and impact of reading and educational resources.
The decision to incorporate storytelling sessions into the library experience is a strategic one also. Storytelling is not just an educational tool; it is a means of cultural and social engagement, connecting the individual listener to the broader community and history. These sessions, particularly those that integrate interactive elements such as dance and games, also serve to solidify reading as a communal value, thereby embedding literacy within the cultural DNA of Iloilo.
The tangible benefits of these initiatives are evident in the testimonies of local students and professionals who have utilized these spaces for academic preparation and professional development. The success stories of board exam topnotchers and university graduates underscore the functional value of these reading centers as more than just repositories of books but as vital support structures facilitating educational achievement and professional success.
Iloilo City’s literacy initiatives are a good example of strategic planning and community engagement. As digital distractions continue to vie for the attention of the youth, promoting reading and critical thinking is a critical counterbalance, ensuring that the leaders of tomorrow are grounded in the foundational skills that reading provides.
Other local government units would do well to observe and emulate Iloilo City’s community-centric approach to literacy and learning.
