Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson encouraged public librarians to use technology to broaden their reach as community builders and ensure equitable access to knowledge for everyone.
In his speech during the opening ceremony of the 5th National Convention of the Association of Librarians in Public Sector (ALPS) Inc. held at Sugarland Hotel in Bacolod City, Lacson cited the critical role of librarians as the country’s knowledge gatekeepers and learning facilitators, thus, their professional growth must be supported.
“The future of our public libraries depends on their ability to stay relevant and responsive to the needs of our communities,” Lacson said in a statement issued by the Capitol Public Information Office.
He stressed that libraries remain to be the constant source of free and reliable information and knowledge despite the advent of digital information sources, but they must adapt and keep pace with change and rapid technological advancements.
Also present at the opening ceremonies were ALPS President Lucila Raquino, National Library of the Philippines Director Cesar Adriano, Negros Occ. Provincial Librarian Rio Lynn Panisa, Bacolod City Library OIC Maybel Grande, and Atty. Joseph Karol Chiu, Secretary to the Mayor of Bacolod City, among others.*
