For this edition of SEAtizens, we feature the latest academic center in Valenzuela, Philippines – a library that houses six floor worth of books and learning materials!
Calling the attention of all bibliophiles! Valenzuela City just opened a six floor academic center with a three story library that’s open to the public and it’s a haven for books and learning.
Photos from Valenzuela City Academic Center for Excellence
The Valenzuela City Library can be found within the Valenzuela City Academic Center for Excellence (ValACE) building which is located at Barangay Malinta, Valenzuela City, easily accessible for visitors as it is situated along McArthur Highway.
Photos from Valenzuela City Academic Center for Excellence
The project was an initiative of Valenzuela City Mayor and now DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian back in 2015. The building’s construction was completed during the COVID-19 pandemic period and it opened its doors to the public last February 23.
As shared by City Librarian Rochelle Silverio with SEA Wave, the Valenzuela City Library attracts around 2,000 visitors each day due to its comprehensive range of facilities and services.
The Valenzuela City Library provides research assistance, free Wi-Fi, and books for borrowing throughout the day. Currently, books cannot be taken home or read elsewhere as the library is still expanding its collection through book drives, but home borrowing is planned for the future. The library boasts a diverse range of genres and classifications, including children’s books, course materials, and special collections from notable individuals like Xiao Chua and Zeus Salazar. Additionally, the library supports multiculturalism through its collection of books by local authors from various regions, as well as magazines, brochures, and coffee table books.
Photos from Valenzuela City Academic Center for Excellence
The ValACE Building is a six-floor structure with a roof deck. The first three floors house the public library, including a general reference area, senior citizens area, and children’s area. Special collections are available on the second and third floors, and there are training halls, conference rooms, and the ValSPED Extension on the upper floors. Food, drinks, and bags are not allowed on the first and second floors, but are permitted on the third floor. Library etiquette must be observed at all times.
There are inspirational quotes all over and the library is full of Instagrammable places.
The Valenzuela City Library also has an online database where people can search for books and materials that are available in the actual library. This database can be accessed by anyone and is available at https://library.valenzuela.gov.ph/
The Valenzuela City Library offers a range of exciting and informative monthly activities. Kids can enjoy storytelling, music, and art activities, while families can participate in free literacy and bonding events. The library also conducts seminars and workshops on various topics that are open to all.
The library’s activities and initiatives are organized and facilitated by its dedicated staff and volunteers. In the near future, the library will be accepting volunteers to join in its efforts to promote literacy, learning, and community engagement. Everyone is welcome to participate, but Valenzuela locals are particularly encouraged to get involved and make a positive impact in their community. According to Nesyl Evangelista, library volunteer, “Minsan mahirap, pero masaya mag-volunteer. Kapag nakikita namin yung mga bata sa loob at naglalaro at masaya. Even if I complete my required hours of volunteering for school I would still volunteer again.”
If you have any books gathering dust on your shelves or learning materials that are no longer being used, consider donating them to the Valenzuela City Library. The library is still accepting donations for their book drive and encourages donations of books on timeless topics such as gardening, arts, cooking, history, and literature. They also welcome makerspace materials, table top games, and any learning materials available, such as musical instruments and cooking equipment. Your donations can help expand the library’s collection and provide valuable resources for the community to enjoy.
Photos from Valenzuela City Academic Center for Excellence
For those interested, you may bring your donations directly to the ValACE building or coordinate with the Valenzuela City Library through their Facebook page for pickups within Metro Manila.
Valenzuela City Library
Daily Schedule
1st & 3rd floor, Monday – Sunday, 9AM to 6PM
2nd floor, Monday – Sunday, 9AM to 12NN
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the Valenzuela City Library welcomes everyone with open arms. The library is a haven for book lovers, learners, and curious minds from all over. All visitors are required to bring a valid ID, but aside from that, there are no restrictions on who can enjoy the library’s offerings.
“We will be continuing our service to the public in the best way that we can to support lifelong learning. Salamat sa pagmamahal. Damang dama namin ang pagmamahal niyo sa aklatan natin. Come visit the Valenzuela City Library, it’s an amazing place to learn. We are open to everyone.” – Rochelle Silverio, City Librarian – Valenzuela City Public Library (ValACE)
The Valenzuela City Library is not your ordinary library. It’s a one-of-a-kind sensory experience that caters to learners of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. With its diverse range of facilities and services, it’s more than just a place for students or scholars. From the general reference area to the special collections on the upper floors, each level offers a unique space for people to learn, collaborate, and explore. So, if you’re in the area or need a quiet place to study or read, be sure to check out the Valenzuela City Library at the ValACE Building.
Like and follow their official Facebook page to stay updated with all upcoming activities and initiatives: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083279945372
SEA Wave magazine’s SEAtizens initiative is a series of inspiring stories of people in Southeast Asia who champion the human spirit by demonstrating courage, ingenuity, generosity, and selflessness.