UNEP Spearheads Regional Conference for Librarians

The never-ending quest for advancement through digital modernization spreads even through the nooks and corners of traditional libraries.  Literacy innovations became an aim, not just for educators but also for librarians.  They challenge themselves to make this comprehension available in every information alley.  The digital distribution of information became a must ---- and libraries are not spared from this.

In order to be at par with this modernization, librarians should also be equipped with corresponding know-how and expertise in order to implement these changes properly.  In response, the University of Northeastern Philippines (UNEP), is all set to conduct a 2-day regional seminar-workshop on February 18 and 19 at UNEP Mini theater.

Entitled "Building Literate Communities through Books and Libraries", the conference aims to generate awareness on the significance of information literacy among students and teachers.  It also intends to define the role of libraries in the promotion of information literacy.

UNEP President Atty. Remelisa Alfelor-Moraleda said that the conference will shed a new light on the true role of librarians as providers of easy-access information.  "One of the objectives of this conference is to provide our intended recipients, particularly our librarians with the concept of information literacy.  Their primary role as front liners is also vital for the dissemination of correct and factual data and information."

Libraries served as a "store room" of information and publications, making it available for every user who wants to learn and research facts and information.  Yet as time passed by, librarian's role became more challenging.

Amidst the digital revolution where information is just a click away, the increasing herd of library-users has maintained its steady pace. For one, a computer cannot assist a student who simply finds it difficult to search the internet site, find the right web address and browse the net, but a librarian can guide you in searching what you need thru the reference books which she carefully labeled and catalogued.

UNEP Executive Vice President and the university's Vice President for Finance, Ms. Deli Aldelor-Tibi, said that the role of librarians is not an easy task.  "The amazing task of librarians might have been neglected by many, the reason why we need to reinforce their vital role in our society. We hope that through this seminar, we will also be able to see and appreciate what they have done and what they have preciously contributed to help mold the minds of our students."

Target participants for the regional confab are teachers, librarians and education students.  Elvira B. Lapuz and Zarah Grace C. Gagatiga, both from the University of the Philippines (UP), were invited as resource speakers for the conference.

Interested participants may contact the following personnel: Hermie- 0915-7781402,  Joyce- 0918-6984844, Lorena-0919-4589436 and Jaida-0929-3187601.   For more details, call telephone numers (054) 299-2698, ext. 57 and (054) 456-0294.