The National Library of the Philippines (NLP) and The Asia Foundation (TAF) recognized the Balilihan Congressional Library as Top Performing Congressional Library of 2019.
The congressional library received the distinction in a virtual awarding Search for Gawad Parangal sa Natatanging Propesyunal na Tagapangasiwa ng Pampublikong Aklatan last Monday, August 25, 2020.
The library was cited for its extensive library services, which include services for children, PWD, Senior Citizen, Out of School Youth and Community Outreach, Tech4ed Center, Digital Computer Literacy Reference, Storytelling session, and Online References.
Cong. Edgar Chatto established the library on September 28, 2008 to provide access to quality library services in underserved areas.
In a prepared video, the Balilihan Congressional Library staff thanked the NLP led by Cesar Gilbert Adriano and the Public Libraries Division headed by Ms. Blesila P. Velasco for appreciating their accomplishments.
They lauded the efforts of head librarian Daisy Grace L. Molina, and expressed gratitude to their clients, readers, and library users for making the most of their library services.
The library also thanked Chatto himself who graced the online awards ceremony for his consistent support together with Balilihan Mayor Pureza Chatto.
They vowed to continue to serve with passion and dedication.
NLP Director Adriano in his opening remarks congratulated awardees. He also encouraged libraries to maximize its services amid new norms and congratulated such initiatives that respond to needs of the current situation despite limitations.
TAF Country Representative Sam Chittick on the other hand expressed appreciation for partnership with NLP as libraries, he said are lifeblood in the communities and it is fitting to recognize their selfless dedication and contribution.
The library is one of five congressional libraries in the country and has consistently registered increased visitors.
The facility was built right beside the Bohol Island State University-Balilihan Campus which was also founded by Cong. Chatto in 2009 through Republic Act 9722 as the 6th campus of the university.