By UC Libraries
The University of the Cordilleras (UC) Libraries upholds excellence by adhering to the University’s teaching, learning, research, and community extension programs. It provides comprehensive information resources, customer-focused services, and innovation. It is committed to implement the sustainable development goals namely: good health and well-being; quality education; industry, innovation, and infrastructure; and partnership for the goals.
With the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, UC Libraries expands and innovates its services to address the University’s flexible learning modality and the needs of the immediate community for distance learning. Library personnel have dynamically contributed to make the library an active information environment for the faculty and students of the University. Online library services were introduced such as Online Borrowing of Books, Online Document Delivery, and ‘Ask A Librarian’ virtual assistance. These innovations were made possible with the purchase of equipment like scanners, webcams, mobile phone with monthly load cards, and the upgrade of Internet connectivity. Thus, library patrons may avail of the library’s resources and services conveniently from the comforts of their homes.
“Commend ko lang yung Online Document Delivery ng UC,” said COA 3.
“Great job for online programs and initiative during this pandemic!”, said No.67 from the Customer Satisfaction Survey.
Moreover, UC libraries continues their community engagement through outreach and extension services in partnership with the Project Health, Education, Livelihood, Environment, Nurturance (H.E.L.E.N), a social responsibility arm of the University. From March to April, 2020, UC Libraries assisted in repacking and distribution of relief packs to 7,371 beneficiaries which includes stranded UC students; food assistance to 3,226 frontliners. From May to June, 2020, the Librarians gave face masks to library patrons.
Likewise, book donation activities reached our less privileged communities through the initiative of the UC Libraries. A total of 1,076 volumes of books were donated to Pinukpuk Municipal Police Station on October 1, 2020; 353 volumes to Barangay Bineng Sangguniang Kabataan on December 3, 2020; gave 511 volumes to Pico Elementary School and 546 volumes to Kias Elementary School on May 28, 2021.
“The books are essential for those who do not have any online access to information. The book donation activities gave the community equal opportunity to learn despite the circumstances,” said PLt Gerald D. Bentadan, Pinukpuk, Kalinga Police Officer.
The UC Libraries also recognizes the importance of mental health. Hence, in partnership with the Holy Rosary High School Batch 1995, UC Libraries conducted an online webinar series on time management and stress management with the theme: “Remembering with Gratitude, Sharing with Joy and Building Resilience.”
69 students, 16 teachers, and 30 parents/guardians of Holy Rosary High School participated in the said webinar held on November 20, 21, and 28, 2020.
With its consistent effort to adapt to the evolving needs of the academic landscape and the community, UC Libraries remains strong to sustain grit and resilience as it shares its light and make the SDGs happen to the University and the community. YesUCan!
