Children in underserved communities and families displaced by disasters could gain access to books, internet connectivity and learning resources under a proposed ordinance seeking to bring library services closer to residents.
Councilor Joel Garganera proposed institutionalizing the Cebu City Mobile Library Program, which would extend the Cebu City Public Library’s services to communities with limited access to permanent libraries and evacuation centers during emergencies.
Under the proposal, the city would prioritize establishing at least one fully equipped mobile library during the program’s initial implementation, subject to available funding and procurement requirements.
The vehicle would function as a mobile learning and information hub equipped with books, computers or tablets, audiovisual materials and satellite internet connectivity.
Solar panels and a battery energy storage system would power the equipment while the vehicle is stationary or on standby, reducing its reliance on external electricity sources.
Priority areas would include barangays without adequate reading facilities, public schools with limited library resources, low-income communities, public housing areas and geographically isolated locations.
The proposed service would offer book lending, storytelling sessions, children’s reading activities, digital literacy instruction, internet access, research assistance and other educational programs.
Its collection could include children’s books, Cebuano and Philippine literature, local history materials and other educational resources.
Satellite internet would provide access to online learning materials in communities where conventional internet services are unavailable, unreliable or disrupted.
The proposal also seeks to make the service accessible to persons with disabilities through large-print books, Braille materials, audio resources and assistive technology.
A key component of the proposal is deploying the mobile library to evacuation centers and temporary shelters during disasters and other emergencies that displace residents.
The unit could provide evacuees with reading materials, children’s learning activities, digital resources, storytelling sessions and basic information services.
The Cebu City Public Library would coordinate deployments with the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the Department of Social Welfare and Services, barangay officials and evacuation center administrators.
Children, students, senior citizens, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups would receive priority during emergency deployments.
The proposed program would complement, rather than interfere with, the city’s primary emergency response, rescue, medical and relief operations.
Funding could come from annual city appropriations, subject to budget availability and government accounting, auditing and procurement rules.
Expenses could cover the vehicle, books, digital equipment, internet subscriptions, solar power systems, personnel, maintenance and emergency deployments. Donations, grants and partnerships with educational institutions and other organizations could also support the program.
The Cebu City Public Library would prepare annual plans outlining target communities, routes, schedules, equipment requirements and estimated expenditures. It would also monitor the number of communities and residents served.
The proposed ordinance has yet to undergo deliberation and approval by the City Council.
Comments