[L-R] Participants of MYLA Basic Training for Library-in-Charge with resource speakers Ms. Nelly A. Ngangay, Mr. Alan C. Taule, Chief Science Research Specialist, Ms. Maribel Estepa, Chief Librarian of Our Lady Fatima University (OLFU), and Ms. Ronna Mae T. Pamilacan

Non-librarians from various educational institutions participated in a two-day basic training for library-in-charge, organized by the Department of Science and Technology - Science and Technology Information Institute, held on November 5-6, 2024, at the DOST-STII Training Room.

Recognizing libraries as cornerstones for enhancing students’ educational experiences, the ‘Make Your Library Alive (MYLA): Basic Training for Library-in-Charge’ was designed to equip school staff or faculty members with essential skills and knowledge required to effectively manage school libraries.

The training covered key topics on library management, including resource organization, Library Management System usage, and library promotion. Specific skills included listing and describing different library resources, applying the Dewey Decimal Classification System for proper shelving, promoting and marketing the library, and periodically submitting library usage reports for monitoring. 

A total of 28 participants attended the training, representing Our Lady of Fatima University (OLFU), University of the Philippines - Diliman (UPD), Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Manila (PUP-Manila), Learn and Explore Montessori School, and Taguig City Public Library.

Key takeaways for participants on the first day included challenging their previous assumptions about organizing library resources. One participant noted gaining a new appreciation for their role in managing the library effectively after completing the modules. The first day focused on the responsibilities of library assistants, including maintaining a master list of library resources and the technical and mechanical processes involved in organizing them.

One of the resource speakers, Nelly A. Ngangay, Acquisition and Cataloging Librarian at the DOST-STII Library, discussed the classification and cataloging of library materials, which many participants found especially helpful.

Ms. Ngangay during her discussion on Module 2: Getting to Know and Keeping a Masterlist of Your Library Resources

“Ask the librarians, huwag niyo isiping mahirap [ang cataloging], maintindihan [natin] kung saan kukunin ang information,” encouraged by Ms. Ngangay after the participants shared their realizations and learnings from the session.

[“Ask the librarians, don’t think that cataloging is difficult, we will understand where to get the information from.”]

Ms. Pamilacan guiding participants in creating publicity materials as part of library promotion

Meanwhile, on the second day, Ronna Mae T. Pamilacan, Science Research Assistant in the Digitization Unit of the DOST-STII Library, shared insights on how promoting the library fosters community engagement, demonstrates value, and encourages lifelong learning. Participants demonstrated their learnings through role-play exercises focused on handling difficult clients or customers. Other topics covered included library services, monitoring library usage, and the Library Management System.

The winning group for the role-play activity with a scenario of responding to clients bringing food to a restricted area despite library rules.

The training concluded with the recognition of special awardees, the awarding of certificates of completion, and a closing message from Alan C. Taule, Chief Science Research Specialist and SCALEUP TWG Member of DOST-STII.

“I challenge each of you to think about how you can make your library alive, whether you’re a librarian, an educator, a community leader, or just a passionate advocate. There’s something each of us can do to foster a space that inspires, informs, and engages,” shared Mr. Taule, recognizing libraries as not just buildings filled with books, but as dynamic spaces of learning, connection, and community.

The first-ever MYLA Basic Training for non-librarians, previously exclusive to librarians, is one of the courses offered under the Science Communication Advocacy and Library Education Upskilling Program (SCALEUP). Its primary objective is to provide training and human resource development services in information and communication, aligning with the Institute's core competencies.

For more information on the SCALEUP Program, please visit the official Facebook page of DOST STII SCALEUP (https://facebook.com/DOSTSTIISCALEUP). (By Kesha Shua V. Leosala, DOST-STII; Photos by Levie S. Miranda, DOST-STII)