City Library Launches ‘Family Literacy’ Project

The Cebu City Public Library launched its family literacy project, the first ever in Cebu and in libraries nationwide, last July 16, 2013.

The “Alimbukad: Basa Pamilya” kicks off to coincide the celebration of the 30th National Children’s Book Day, and in partnership with Zonta Club of Cebu II and in cooperation with Cebu Normal University-College of Education.

The project aims to train underprivileged mothers with pre-school children in targeted barangays within Cebu City through a series of 12 weekly lectures and workshops. It is mainly empowering parents to become reading and learning advocates by developing their reading and tutoring skills for them to take leadership in their children’s studies.

Lawyer Antonio Santos, director of the National Library of the Philippines, personally witnessed the launching and served as the guest speaker of the event. He also expressed his appreciation of the project as this is the first one in the entire country.

Santos inspired the librarians, the Zontians, mothers and other guests of the importance of literacy. He highlighted that reading is the key to education and success, and that will be made possible if it starts at home.

Myrna Cruz Tan, president of Zonta Club of Cebu II, said that they are excited to start the program soon wherein teachers will train the mothers in reading skills. She added that the club plans to expand the program that will include the province considering that they have existing libraries.

A storytelling and puppetry presentation was also held during the launching by students and Zonta Club of Cebu II’s Z Club from Childlink Learning Center. Pre-school children from Capitol Site nursery center came to witness the show together with their mothers. Librarians from the cities of Mandaue and Lapu-lapu also attended the event.

A signing of memorandum of understanding between the city government thru the city library and ‘Basa Pamilya’ project coordinator will be held soon after the City Council passes a resolution on the agreement.

City Librarian Rosario Chua said that the Cebu City Library continues to develop reading programs in partnership with private and civic-oriented groups, as well as strengthening its children’s book section through different activities. (Gessa Gunhuran, PIO Staff)