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Barangay Quirino in Bacnotan, La Union, marked a significant milestone on April 10, 2025, with the opening of the community’s first barangay library. This new learning space aims to strengthen grassroots literacy through access to Filipino children’s books and other educational resources. The Barangay Hooked on Books (HOB) Library and Reading Program brings together several organizations and local leaders in a joint effort to support the reading development of young learners.
Barangay Hooked on Books Library Highlights Filipino Children’s Books
The Barangay Hooked on Books Library and Reading Program introduces a unique model for literacy development in La Union. This initiative is a collaboration among the local government unit (LGU) of Bacnotan, Holcim Helps, LINKS Philippines, and the Barangay Council of Quirino. Holcim Helps, the corporate social responsibility arm of Holcim Philippines, and LINKS Philippines, a non-profit literacy-focused organization, partnered with the barangay to ensure the project’s success.
The library houses a carefully curated collection that includes Filipino children’s books, reference materials, and visual aids. These resources aim to provide young readers with materials that reflect their own culture and experiences. Trained community volunteers manage the library, ensuring that children and families have a welcoming place to read, learn, and grow. The partners believe that early access to reading materials, especially Filipino children’s books, can have a lasting impact on literacy and education outcomes in the barangay.
Local Collaboration Builds a Strong Foundation
The success of the Barangay Hooked on Books Library comes from the strong collaboration between local stakeholders. The LGU of Bacnotan provided support and coordination for the project, while Holcim Helps and LINKS Philippines contributed technical expertise, training, and resources. The Barangay Council of Quirino played a key role in promoting the program within the community and securing a safe space for the library.
This joint effort emphasizes how partnerships between government, non-profit groups, and private companies can create meaningful opportunities for education at the community level. All involved parties recognize the potential of Filipino children’s books to spark curiosity and foster a love for learning among young readers. They also stress the importance of sustaining the project through continuous engagement and volunteer support.
A New Space for Literacy and Learning
The Barangay Hooked on Books Library serves as a supplementary learning space designed for young children, early learners, and even out-of-school youth. By offering free access to Filipino children’s books and other learning materials, the library supports families who may not have the means to provide these resources at home.
The program also addresses the broader need for early literacy development. With volunteers trained to facilitate reading sessions and encourage family participation, the library builds a strong foundation for lifelong learning. This grassroots effort reflects the belief that literacy programs should start at the community level to have the greatest impact.
Looking Ahead: Measuring Success
The LGU of Bacnotan plans to monitor and evaluate the Barangay Hooked on Books Library’s performance in the coming months. Local leaders intend to assess improvements in reading comprehension and school readiness among children who participate in the program. By gathering data and feedback, they aim to ensure that the library continues to meet the needs of the community.
The stakeholders hope that this first barangay library in La Union will serve as a model for other communities to follow. They envision similar libraries across the province, each offering access to Filipino children’s books and promoting literacy at the grassroots level. The success of Barangay Quirino’s library could inspire other barangays to invest in community-based educational programs.
Filipino Children’s Books at the Heart of Community Literacy
Through this initiative, Barangay Quirino shows how local action can promote national goals in education. The Barangay Hooked on Books Library highlights the essential role that Filipino children’s books play in building literacy skills, cultural awareness, and a love for reading. By bringing books closer to children’s homes, the project breaks down barriers to education and empowers families to support their children’s learning journey.
Every story read, every book shared, and every child who gains confidence in reading represents a step toward a more literate and empowered community. Barangay Quirino’s new library stands as a living example of how access to Filipino children’s books can transform lives at the most local level.
