The Baguio City Public Library (BCPL) continues its drive to transform into a modernized institution as it unveiled its official website and Library Integrated Management System (LIMS) after the completion of the project’s phase 1.
Aside from being a website, it is envisioned to become a virtual library that contains a vast collection of digital and online resources coupled with the provision of remote library information services.
BCPL can now be found online at https://library.baguio.gov.ph/#/. Users may now search for bibliographic information of the library’s collection through the Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC), which is embedded in the system.
New data are added daily to fast-track the provision of the institution’s complete database of collections. Direct access to World Book Online, to which the library is subscribed, is now possible.
A pool of other open access databases and digital libraries are also made available, making it easier for users to search and navigate reliable sources of information. These are divided into the following categories: Open Access (International); Open Access (Philippines); K to 12; Newspapers; and Children’s Books where parents and their children can find and download numerous books to read.
A library news section is also added for easy viewing of updates regarding the library, its programs, activities, and services.
Another part of the project is the system registration of library users. A user account is created for them so they can have full access to the functionalities of the website and LIMS. They will also have their library cards so they will no longer need to register manually when entering the facility. Users who wish to register may do so at the Internet Section of BCPL.
This development is made possible through close collaboration of the city library together with the Management Information Technology Division supervised by Engr. Felipe L. Puzon of the City Mayor’s Office), MITD OIC Francis Camarao, and members Albert Lacay and Jhyden Ellana.
More features, functionalities, and capabilities for the platform are already planned and decked so the public can expect more to come from the team, including provision of direct access to numerous e-books. Among the first to be uploaded are the recently purchased 50 titles that cover topics on information and technology, cyber crime, medical and natural sciences, social science, governance, education, and tourism.
City Librarian Easter Wahayna-Pablo engages the public to view the city public library as no longer just a repository of printed books but a community center, which is evolving with the trends where people can do a multitude of activities for self-improvement.
For instance, library users can use the computers with Internet connection at the library to do homework, read e-books, make application letter, make online appointments for government transactions, entertain themselves, be inspired, learn new things, and so much more.
Printing can also be availed with a limit of 10 pages. Online document and information request can also be provided by the library through the Public Library Virtual Reference Assistance or PLViRA. It’s just a click away at bit.ly/plvira22.
With the recent approval of the Library Modernization Plan, the library hopes to push through with the creation of spaces intended for discussion, creation, collaboration, and exhibition.
The BCPL believes “a fully equipped and functional library and information center is a relevant factor in improving the literacy and reading comprehension level of the citizenry, which is very much important to be one with the city in attaining the administration’s 15-point agenda and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.” – Catalina B. Oloan
April 19, 2024
