Filipino Librarian: Joy Fajardo Nera

Filipino Librarian of the month is Mrs. Joy Fajardo Nera. If her last name sounds familiar to you, it is because she is the daughter-in-law of the one and the only, Madame Cora Nera of Philippine Librarianship. Once in a conference where we both had the pleasure of presenting papers, she candidly introduced herself as the "joyful" Nera. She is a bundle of joyful spirit. Assumption College San Lorenzo is lucky to have her as its head librarian of their integrated library.

In this interview, she reveals to us her library journey. It has been a delightful one. Read on!

What’s my your story?

First of all,  my baccalaureate degree is not Library Science. I’m a Bachelor of Arts major in Political Science graduate. I also have my Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service. I earned these degrees from the Lyceum of the Philippines University (used to be Lyceum of the Philippines) in Intramuros. I never imagined that someday I will  have a Library Science degree and that I will be working in a library. Although I have an aunt who was a librarian from Bulacan, Library Science was not included in my choices of courses to take after I finished my secondary education.

After  finishing my ABPS and BSFS, I was offered to teach part time  in Lyceum. While taking my MA in Public Administration (also in Lyceum), I taught one or two Political Science subjects (Philippine Constitution and  Intro to Political Science). Later on I was offered to work in the Sotero H. Laurel Library as a Library Assistant. Because I love to stay in the library  when I was still a student and perhaps out of curiosity, I accepted the offer  and I was assigned  in the Engineering Library.

Having no idea of what librarianship is all about, I decided to take up  first some  units  of  Library Science instead of  continuing  my MA in Public Administration. When I inquired in CEU for their LS  undergrad course, I was advised by Dr. Teresita Calma (the former Ms. Tess Hernandez) to enroll in the Graduate Studies program and take the required 18 units in the MA program instead of the undergrad. 

 I was very thrilled to study library science. At first, I  found the technical subjects very difficult especially the Cataloging and Indexing. What do I know about Library of Congress? I could explain the word congress  if it has something to do with the Lower House or Philippine Congress because of my political science background but not Library of Congress.  I had to exert more efforts  because I didn’t have any LS background at all. Some of my classmates were  senior librarians while a few were already Head or Chief Librarians.  Having Mrs. Corazon Nera as our  Cataloging and Indexing Professor added fuel to the fire.  I really had double my efforts   to be able to cope up with all the requirements.  Everyone was given the same  treatment whether one  was already a practicing librarian or somebody who was  “trying to become a librarian.”  But honestly speaking, I had so much fun and my LS education was filled with   lots  of wonderful experiences.
So to make the story short, after a couple of years, I earned my MA in Library Science in October 1995. I  took the  Board Exam the following year. Luckily,   I took my oath as a professional librarian in December 1996.

After being sworn as a professional librarian, I decided to give up my  teaching career in the field of Political Science or Foreign Service. I just found myself   having a great time in  my new found profession. 

However, having my MALS  diploma  didn’t stop me from studying more. I was looking for a university offering a Ph. D in Library Science. Because there was no university offering this specialization, I took my Ph. D with Specialization in Educational Management  instead with library science as my field of concentration. My dissertation is a qualitative study of the Phenomenology of the Information Technology : Its Demands and Challenges in Managing Academic Libraries.

What has been the greatest challenge you’ve faced so far as a licensed and working librarian? Why do you say it’s a challenge?

The greatest  challenge I’ve faced  being a librarian was when  I decided to give up my being an academic librarian in order to enter the world of  a school librarian. Working in  an academic library for almost 10 years, I was challenged to embrace a different set-up and services of a school library in 1998 when I joined Assumption College High School Department.

Having spent almost ten years in an academic environment, I had a temporary culture shock during the first few months of  dealing with high school students. I saw myself starting from scratch. Aside from the LC classification system, I also had to familiarize myself with DDC. From a once every start of semester library orientation to college students, I found myself preparing Library Instructions not only to High School but also to Grade School students which were scheduled on a regular basis. My  typical quite research type library  scenario for almost ten years was replaced with an environment where I had to remind little girls not to run and play hide and seek inside the library.

I thought I will not be able  to finish my contract and come back again to an  academic library. However, as time goes by, I realized that my new environment added more colors to my professional life. Dealing with children who are always dressed  up with their favorite book characters during our  yearly  Reading Month activities gave me a new meaning  and deeper understanding  of what a librarian really is.  Whether I am dressed as a character in the book  Chinese Cinderella  or as   Esmeralda in the book The Hunchback of Notre Dame is always something to look forward too every November.

It’s already my 16th year as a school librarian  and everyday when I go to my work,  I look forward to  an extra ordinary and more colorful library experience  I will have with the students.

What is your area of expertise in LIS?

Being the coordinator for almost 16 years, I guess its library management I can call my field of expertise.

What do you think are the requirements and necessary preparations necessary for becoming a LIS  professional?

Personally, I think if one would like to become a LIS professional, he or she should  be open to working with people,  technology and lots and lots of information.  He/she should be a “ jack of all trades and master of all too.”  Future librarians should have passion for not just for knowledge  but for everything of value and interest.

As for the other requirements, of course, there will always be  educational and licensure requirements.

When it comes to skills requirement,  a prospective librarian should have technical knowledge and training. He/She should be equipped with computer skills and knowledge. He/She  should also posses organizational and management skills,  interpersonal skills/customer service skills as well as research and evaluation skills. 

What rewards have you reaped from being a LIS professional?

I usually say I owe it to my profession why I became a member of the Nera clan. My life and love story might not be this way  if I didn’t join the field of librarianship. I met my husband through my mother-in-law who happened to be my professor and thesis adviser in my MA program. My life might not be this happy and colorful if I didn’t follow my instinct of becoming a librarian.

On a more professional note, I think the happiness I gained knowing that I am part of a child’s education and learning experiences is something I might not have felt  if I didn’t become a librarian.

I mentioned  before in one of the talks I shared to fellow librarians that it always makes me happy  knowing that I have shared the love of reading to children.  It’s a different fulfillment  every time a student  comes to me sharing me what she  learned from a book she  just read. The joy of knowing that I have inspired children to read is something I will always be proud of.  

Here are just some of the letters I received from students which  made me realized I was correct in choosing this profession :

Knowing that I have touched a child’s life to the extent that she  hoped  that I will have a happy, safe and healthy life is something I will  always cherish for the rest of my life.

Christmas Displays @ the Library: Deck the Walls and Doors!

Books about Christmas / Novels set during Christmas

Book reviews by students written on Christmas ball cut-outs.

 I love it that they write what they think about the books they read.

Book Spine Poetry Contest 2013

A few days back, I sent via email a book spine poem I made to the school community where I work as high school librarian. It got good feedback and a suggestion that I run it like a contest. I did and sent this email out:

Book Spine Poetry Contest

How to do it: simply compose your own found poetry using the books' spine. If you're not done with your poem yet, you can leave the books you pulled out of the shelves with Mr. Flynn for only a day. He will return it back to the shelf if you did not come back for it the following day. Cut off time is 3.30pm.

If you have no intent at finishing the poem, YOU must return the book to its proper place in the shelf by following its call number.

Once you've composed your book spine poem, I'll take a photo of it; I'll tag your name and this becomes your batch's entry to the Book Spine Poetry Festival on March 21. Take note that March 21 is World Poetry Day. A poet will judge the poems during the finals.

We'll feature poems completed and submitted to us at the end of each month beginning this December. Deadlines are: December 18; January 31; February 28; March 19.

For the prizes: Monthly winner/s = healthy snack / Finals = Ice Cream / Grand prize winner = Pizza Party

And yes, you can work in pairs, in triads or in teams of four.

The reception is overwhelming! Students made use of the OPAC to search for books they want to Below are some entries of students to the Book Spine Poetry Contest.

The 3rd ReaderCon Panel on Kids and Their Stories: What "Kid" Readers Want

It's a gloomy day but there were bright smiles of kids in the hall at the 5th floor of the Rizal Library Ateneo de Manila University.

I was at the 3rd ReaderCon and the kids who were present during the panel, Kids and Their Stories were just as excited as the panelists themselves. Dr. Luis Gatmaitan (writer), Dang Bagas (author) and Fran Ong (publisher) were all in awe listening at the questions the kids asked.

How do you inspire kids to read? What keeps you motivated as a writer? What stories have you not written yet? These were but a few of the questions they asked. Majority of the kids present were grade six students from CENTEX Manila and grade 3 students of Holy Spirit Elementary School. The sixth graders particularly were very interactive. They huddled close together and in whispers coached each other for questions to ask the panelists.

These kids want non-fiction books; books about the world; genre literature namely, horror, humor, adventure, mystery (no mention of fantasy, perhaps it's because the kids have access to these genre of literature) and stories that show the importance of life. To these responses, the panelists took notes. Teachers of these students could not help but clamor for concept books written in Filipino. There you go, mother tongue! Such books can be used in teaching lessons and units as prescribed by the curriculum. There are textbooks, yes, but these cover only 20% of learning concepts. What non-textbook reading materials can offer are the possibilities of thinking beyond the designed learning plans and acquiring concepts that can be applied in real life situations.

We have our work cut out for us.

As a librarian, I could not help but do a mental scan of places and spaces where kids, parents and teachers can access books they want to read. It is a disservice when libraries could not provide for the needs of its readers. I was a bit disappointed to find out that teens were absent during the panel. Being a Saturday, perhaps they had other "gimik" or event to take part in. Maybe next time, if there will be a next time, book clubs in high schools should be invited to the panel.

The session ended with the kids asking for the panelists' autographs. Go authors! Go Fran, maker of books! You rock!

Christmas Library Promo: Candy Canes for Free!

For three books, a borrower would get a free candy cane! Happy reading this yuletide season!

Book Spine Poetry

I discovered this at the high school library of Miriam College:

It's Book Spine Poetry! Books were stacked on top of each other, arranged in an order where the reader can read the titles as lines to a poem. This one reads: I am an emotional creature / Use your anger / Our voices / Help for hard times / Healing together. There are five lines to the poem but only four books lay on the table. I suppose the book on top has been borrowed as I saw the books on a table placed in the middle of the reading area very near the circulation counter.

I found the idea so cool that I made one myself --

Coming back to me

Breathless

The sailor who fell from grace with the sea

To the lighthouse

Where we belong

Thanks to librarian friends from Miriam College High School Library for allowing me to take a photo of their book and reading promotion activity. I'll be trying this out in our school library and wait for results.

A Time to Be Together: Storytelling @ DSWD Fabella Center

Teachers Chinky and Tin; Darrel, LIS student Thel Suliva, and Mennie

Last November 23, 2013, I headed out to Manila with friends from the teaching and school librarianship profession. There were five of us: Teacher Tin and Teacher Chinky of CLP Create School in Merville, Paranaque, school librarians Darrel Marco and Mennie Ruth Viray, and myself. We volunteered to a storytelling session at the DSWD Fabella Center in Mandaluyong for the Visayas kids who were displaced due to typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda. Apart from the storytelling session, we had books, crayons and coloring books for the kids. These are little gifts we hope to offer as bit of a relief to these children who had to leave their homes.

 

 Riding on Diksyunario Atbp., a NGO headed by Lia Manalac Del Castillo, we had a humbling experience as volunteers. Yes, we had fun and enjoyed each others' company (It was Darrel's and Mennie's first time to meet Teachers Tin and Chnky!) but being with the Visayas kids was our simple way of helping out. The smiles and responses of the kids were enough to convince us that the long road to recovery is possible.

 When disaster and tragedy strikes, people can come together or it can break them apart. I see a lot of people coming and working together. PBBY, Kuting and Ang INK concluded a very successful garage sale. The ALA echoed the PLAI's call for help. Artists and civic groups are banding together to help out. NGOs met last week at Museo Pambata to identify pathways to recovery. This coming Family Day in our Marriage Encounter Community, members are encouraged to bring in more donations. What happened to me and my friends last November 23 was proof. Many donations, in cash and kind, have been given. But, I feel that being one towards rebuilding the lives of many Visayan family requires vission, self-discipline and political will.

I am but one in a sea of frustrated voices. I am but one among many Filipinos who won't give up for the Philippines.

Ngumiti Si Andoy Blog Tour: The Xi Zuq & Dom Agsaway Tag Team Interview

a. During the NCBD, you both said that your parents allowed you to write (MJ) and draw (Dom) at home. How did this help you become a good writer and artist?

Xi Zuq (XZ): It gave me a lot of time to develop my skills in writing. In fact, when I was young, my family devoted most Sundays to writing poems, stories, drawing and other artistic activities. I remember that we used to make 'books' and gift them to relatives and friends. 

My mother was my first critic. One time, I asked her to critic and edit a mystery novel I wrote about my lost library card. When she returned the manuscript, I cried because every page was full of red marks. It toughened me, however, to strive to be good at writing.

Dominic Agsaway (DA): The love of my parents gives me power. Love is the most powerful thing in the world and it can break any spell like feeling uninspired or being unproductive. I have this strength coming from the love they have on me. With that love, they taught me to appreciate God, others, our culture and the love for art.

b. What is the most surprising historical fact you learned about Andoy while working on this book?

XZ: I've read a lot of things about Andres B. as a Social Studies teacher, but only during the nights I wrote the story that I started to feel his humanness. I thought about the pain he could have experienced minutes before he died. I could only imagine the faces of loved ones racing through his mind - Ciriaco who died during the encounter between his men and Aguinaldo's, Oryang whom he loved so dearly, his son Andres who died as an infant, his parents who died when he was young, his siblings whose condition he had no idea with, his co-Katipuneros who resorted to factions, and Procopio whose death he witnessed. 

DA: I was with this expression of "Whoah! Andoy used a gun!?" . That swept me off my feet. Even though it is a small detail on the illustration, I researched for the appropriate gun used in the late 1800's. The Itak-only battle was now put aside from my mind.

c. Do you think Andoy is underrated? Why?

XZ: For me, Andres B. was never underrated. But I understand the impression that most Filipinos know Jose R. more than him. One factor, I think, is Jose R. was relegated to a National Hero, which our cultural education highly focuses on. It has always been (at least since college) my agenda to reintroduce/'popularize' Andres B.

DA: I think he's still recognized lovingly side by side with the National Hero. The Filipino loves him and serves as inspiration to everyone. most Filipinos consider him as the Philippine symbol of bravery than any other heroes. I never heard any other heroes included on a kid's limerick stating "Andres Bonifacio, a-tapang a-tao, hindi a-atakbo." He has the air of a National Hero.

d. How can you help the younger generation be more aware and conscious of Filipino heroes' contribution to nationhood? Is your art enough to raise their level of awareness?

XZ: I am a teacher, and I think teaching is the best way. Writing for children, of course, is also a great avenue to raise awareness because it can be used to teach about their contributions in an entertaining and accessible manner.

DA: Kid-friendly stories and artworks can help kids recognize our heroes and make them aware of their contributions. Most kids nowadays enjoy humorous stories and creating a material that is fun but educational can bring them closer to the Fathers & Mothers of our country. Storytelling to kids is also a great way to reach out to them. The artworks I created are made with love for our culture and extending its arms to the kids with the best that it can.

e. What can you say about Dom, MJ? What can you say about MJ, Dom?

Dom Agsaway

 XZ: Domz is such an optimistic and positive person. He treats illustrating for children as a passion and an enjoyable thing to do. He also has a can-do attitude, and because of that I bully him to do some things for the promotion of our book. Haha. He is also an honest person. He shared me once that he faced challenges illustrating the book. He also told me about the persons special to him, especially his family.  

DA:  MJ is a remarkable young writer. I really thank him for coming up with a story  that is culturally significant, educational and yet fun. MJ is very cooperative and is fun to work with. He's also a good friend who listens and gives really good advice. There's a great future for this youthful poet with blessings from God pouring on him. He is a great role model for everyone specially to those aspiring writers.

f. What is your favorite book for children?

Xi Zuq

XZ: There's a lot actually. But my first favorite book for children is Alamat ng Ampalaya by Augie Rivera and Kora Dandan-Albano. I got hold of a copy (the paper was newsprint then) when I was in Grade 1. It was also my first Filipino book for children.

DA: Where the Wild Things Are is my favorite children's book. It inspires me in any sort of way. Everytime I read it, it never fails to take me to the world of the Wild Things and return back feeling good. That is one of the factors that a book is really good with its purpose if it will be able to do that to a person. I thank the late Maurice Sendak for creating a treasure that will keep everyone inspired.



Pangunahing Detalye
Kuwento ni Xi Zuq
Guhit ni Dominic Agsaway
Inilimbag ng Adarna House (2013)

Tungkol sa Aklat
Blurb: Ngumiti si Andoy. Ito ang simula ng kuwento ni Andrew na nagsimula sa kanilang Heroes Park. Gusto lamang niya na iguhit ang estatwa ni Andres Bonifacio nang matuklasan niya ang ilang lihim sa buhay ng bayani.

Sa pagdiriwang ng ika-150 kaarawan ni Andres Bonifacio, inihahandog ng Adarna House ang Ngumiti si Andoy, isang aklat tungkol sa buhay ng bayani. Batay ang kuwento at guhit ng aklat sa mga nagwagi sa 2013 Philippine Board on Books for Young People-Salanga at Alcala Prize [pbby.org.ph]. Hanapin ang Ngumiti si Andoy sa Adarna House showroom at sa pinakamalapit ng book store sa inyo.

Tungkol sa Manunulat
Si Xi Zuq ay isang guro, manunulat at mambabasa mula sa Lungsod ng Heneral Santos. Kasapi siya ng Kuwentista ng mga Tsikiting (KUTING) at Linangan sa Imahen, Retorika, at Anyo (LIRA). Bisitahin siya sa www.xizuqsnook.com.

Tungkol sa Illustrador
Si Dominic Agsaway ay isang ilustrador ng komiks at librong pambata. Siya ay miyembro ng Ang Ilustrador ng Kabataan. Nagtapos siya sa Unibersidad de Santo Tomas (UST) at madalas rin tumambay sa parke habang naghihintay ng sundo. Maaari ninyo siyang ma-email sa  HYPERLINK "mailto:agsaway@gmail.com" \t "_blank" agsaway@gmail.com.

Goodreads Link:  HYPERLINK "https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18805674-ngumiti-si-andoy" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18805674-ngumiti-si-andoy

Giveaway Code at Link (Rafflecopter)
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http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/OWQ0NTM2YWM0MTZlOGE0OTA5ZDM3ZWQ2ZWM2NDI3OjA=/

Philippine Children's Lit Community Gives Back

Looking for Andoy: Ngumiti si Andoy Blog Toour

I have been looking for Andoy since the year began. Every month, I am surprised of Andoy discoveries I have made. There is a lot to know and learn about Andres Bonifacio, not just his heroics, but his personhood too. There have been fora, movies, plays, an opera and a TV show about Andres Bonifacio. And here, a children's story book written by Michael Jude Tumamac and illustrated by Dom Agsaway.

This week, I participate in a blog tour on the Salanga and Alcala grand prize winning story, Ngumti si Andoy, by featuring its author and illustrator in the blog on November 30, 2013.  The blog tour started yesterday and you can head on to Xi Zuq's Nook for a schedule of posts about the book and its creators in the blogosphere.

Picture Book Month: My Essay on the Importance of Picture Books

Picture Book Month is happening till the end of the month. My essay on the importance of picture books appeared last November 23, 2013. Here's an excerpt:

When I do author visits in schools and libraries, I make it a point to cover this collaborative process in creating picture books. I think children can learn a lot from this experience especially when they are presented with activities to make their own picture books with classmates and friends. We learn better when we interact with others. In picture books and in creating them, we learn from others too!

For the whole piece, read it here.

Looking for Andoy: A Conference and a TV Show

PLA's Call for Action: One Million and Counting Books for Libraries Victims of Calamities

 

Source: http://plai.org.ph/index.php/news/28-news/23-call-action

ALA's Philippines Library Relief

The American Library Association has publicized its relief efforts to libraries in the Philippines that were destroyed by typhoon Haiyan last November 8, 2013.

The American Library Association is accepting donations from the United States for libraries in the Philippines. The Philippines Library Relief Fund will help to rebuild libraries and archives in the Philippines that were destroyed or damaged by the Typhoon Haiyan on November 8, 2013. Please make tax deductible donations to help rebuild libraries in the Philippines.

Visit ALA's website for more information on this relief operation for Philippine libraries in Leyte, Ormoc, Cebu and Samar.

I personally met Barbara Stripling, the ALA President, during the 42nd IASL Conference in Bali, Indonesia and she is such a strong and wonderful person. Thank you ALA for reaching out to us!

Filipino Librarian: Bily Alejo

Topnother, Bily Alejo has graciously agreed for an interview in the blog. He shares with us his dreams of becoming a librarian specializing in marketing and promotion of library services and programs. He looks up to Mrs. Venus Ibarra Guyos and Mr. Michael Pinto who both mentored him in the Univeristy of St. Louis, Tuguegarao.

Congratulations, Bily! May our tribe increase!

Complete name: ALEJO, BILYSON y DOMINGO
Degree: Bachelor in Library and Information Science (Graduated as Magna cum Laude S.Y. 2012-2013)
School/University: University of Saint Louis – Tuguegarao



* What do you feel now that you've passed the LLE, and topnotcher at that?!

When the results came out, it was really difficult for me to absorb this life-changing moment – life of a topnotcher. At first, I really did not know if I am going to ace in the exam because I wandered on the questions of the LLE. The questions were flabbergasting that for me were “Between Life and Death” questions. Now, I had survived my life’s toughest point and had been recognized as a topnotcher. I know that my success has a reason that comes from God – a reason that remains to be beautiful. If you continue to believe in what God can do to turn impossibilities into unlimited opportunities, you will be guided by His light towards the path of your success!

* How did you prepare for the LLE?

My batch mates had landed on jobs after graduation. I was in a dilemma whether to work or to prepare for the board examination. When I floated my application to one private school, I asked God for a sign that if I will not be hired, I will review for the LLE. Otherwise, I will concentrate on my work. He gave me a sign not to work and just review. So for the remaining months before the board exam, I was jammed in our house as a part-time housekeeper and part-time reviewee.

* Why did you major in LIS?

I enrolled in Library and Information Science by accident and by God’s will. Why LIS? I observed half of my classmates enrolled Accountancy and the rest on Health and Allied Sciences. I did not have any idea about the profession and that posed a challenge – a challenge to discover what is in store for me and to make a difference in our batch.

* Who are your librarian heroes?

I was about to quit and shift into another career during my schooling because I could not find myself in Librarianship. Then, I came to meet and greet Miss Venus Ibarra, now Mrs. Guyos, where I was able to find myself from her. I was inspired by her actions, personality and wisdom to continue to become a Philippine librarian. She supported me like a mother in every endeavor I wish to achieve. I sincerely thank her for the inspiration, love and support she shared to me though I was only her student. To Sir Michael Pinto for the words of encouragement to soar high and to contribute positively in the profession, a big thanks and applause for what he had done. And to many librarians who inspired me in whatever way to become the person I ought to be, I thank you so much! You already know yourselves; I don’t have to enumerate.

* What specialization or tracking in LIS do you wish to take?

My buddy professor, Mrs. Guyos, knew already what I want to become and that is to become a model. Since I am a frustrated model, I want to employ my creativity, intellect and passion into the profession through library marketing. I have a strong sense of passion for library marketing because of my experience as a project manager back in college. A model is about influence and inspiration to people; thus, marketing for me is my choice and my heart.



* What is the most pressing issue in Philippine Librarianship that needs to be addressed? Why? How can this issue be addressed?

I wish to address the stereotypes of librarians as perceived by the younger generations. If we, librarians, are aware of our actions and sensitive to what our users are thinking of us, then we could provide an immediate solution in correcting their wrong discernment and enlightening them about the profession. This is what makes Librarianship unattractive to the younger generations as a career because they do not see the significance of the profession to the society and the opportunities to become successful in life. This draws the obliteration of the growth of the number of librarians in the country which results into high demand and low supply of librarians. Librarians should join hands to make an effort in promoting and realizing the image of the profession in the 21st Century and to the future to come.

* What is your advice to LLE takers in the future and to students of LIS?

Thomas Edison, Father of Invention, once said, “Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.” I am a product of difficult challenges, failures and doubts. I struggled, but I never quit. I continued to dream and trust God’s will. If I was able to make it, you too can! Always remember that despite and in spite of everything, God rewards those people who believe in Him. With God, nothing is impossible!

Sabi ni Korina Sanchez, “Balang araw wala ng batang naka-paa,” para sa kanyang Tsinelas Campaign.
Ako naman, “Balang araw wala ng library na walang librarian,” para sa aking More Librarians Campaign.

I look forward to the influx of competent and virtuous librarians in the country!

KUTING Kwentuhan: On Reading Choices of Kids and Teens

Looking for Andoy: Ngumiti si Andoy The Children's Play

SOS to the World: Infographics on Relief Operations

New on the Blog: Unshelved

I discovered this cool comic strip about libraries, librarians and books. It's called Unshelved by Gene Ambaum and Bill Barnes. 

They have a cool website where you can view and read daily comic strips that are funny and witty. They also have books, reading recommendations and a book club. They ask for library stories so I might just send one over.

I have added Unshelved's widget/link to the blog to receive regular syndication. Should you wish to use their comic strips, check out their permission to reuse policy.

Filipino Friday (5): What do Readers Want?

It's the last Friday of Filipino Friday 2013 and these are the questions of the day:

What’s your favorite genre/reading material?
Who is your favorite author (local or foreign)?
What kinds of books would you like to see more of from local authors or publishers?
What is your favorite book from a Filipino author?

I prefer reading speculative fiction, fantasy especially. But in my line of work, I have learned to read genres I do not like. Reading has allowed me to accommodate and tolerate different world views and constructs. This is a humbling experience and it's awesome. Knowledge is out there. My respect for the reality and expertise of others grow in every reading journey. Of late, I find myself reading essays and non-fiction. This interest was actually spurred by reading fiction the past few years. Sometimes I think about the thin line that divide fiction from non-fiction. A crafty writer can turn fiction into reality and non-fiction into something wonderful and magical.

This is why I love Gaiman. And Rowling. I've started reading Nicholas Carr's The Shallows this week. His storytelling skill is amazing!

Among friends in the local Children's Literature industry, I hold Augie Rivera, Dr. Luis Gatmaitan and Rhandee Garlitos with great respect for their integrity, prolific writing and passionate advocacy to promote the industry. I am charmed by the works of Robert Magnuson, Jomike Tejido and Russell Molina. I am grateful that every year, the anthology, Philippine Speculative Fiction by the Lit Critters core group is published. Dean Alfar's short story, The Kite of Stars, is my definitive Pinoy speculative fiction. I await for Trese 6 by Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo. Still, it has been an interesting experience scouting and picking up new Filipiniana published by local publishers. Eliza Victoria's A Bottle of Storm Clouds surprised me. Bebang Siy's It's a Mens World had me in stitches. Allan Derain's Ang Banal na Aklat ng mga Kumag made me reflect on the morals of myths.

As far as children's books and young adult literature in the country is concerned, I wish to see more of the later and a continued growth of the former. Format is not an issue personally, but print is still important especially for beginning readers. Why? The answer to that question is for another blog post.

My all time favorite book by a Filipino author is Manila, My Manila by Nick Joaquin. I lost my copy years ago and learned recently that the book is out of print.

I Want To Be a Fit Filipino Librarian

I weighed 160 lbs. in 2008. At 4 ft. 11 in., this was way above my normal weight. I suffered from shortness of breath when walking and climbing up stairs. I felt pain in my ankles and in my back. Getting up in the morning was a chore. I was bloated most of the time and shopping for clothes was frustrating. 

At the time, I was very active with facilitating workshops and conducting lectures on top of my full time work. Not until my husband honestly told me how being obese would lower my credibility rating did I confront the issue of weight loss. Besides, he told me of his anxiety about health problems I will face in my 40s if I do not change to a healthy lifestyle.

Listening to him, I availed of the free gym use granted to me by our school's HR department. My name was drawn out of a bowl when Gold's Gym offered free training and fitness sessions for the school's faculty and staff. I had a personal trainer who was my fitness companion. I changed my diet and committed to the gym workout my trainer planned for me. My journey to fitness and a change in lifestyle began

In eight months, I lost 30 lbs. 

Five years after, I am 10 lbs. near my weight in 2008.

This July, my physical exam results came out with the doctor's recommendation of losing 20 to 30 lbs. off. I've attempted to go back to a healthy diet and do routine walking exercises since then but it's been a difficult, personal battle. I know something has to give.

When I learned about Coach Jim Saret's FitFil programvia Janette Toral, a voice inside me pushed me to get in touch with her. For twelve days beginning on November 12, 2013 to December 7, 2013, I'll be committing myself to the Nestle Wellness FitFil Boot Camp.

What attracted me to the program is the opportunity to design my own fitness program. I hope that after finishing the 12 sessions, I'll be able to sustain an exercise regimen that fits my lifestyle and health profile. More than looking good, I chose to take care of myself because it is my responsibility. I have done this before and I know I can do this again.

If you're interested to know more about Coach Jim Saret's FitFil program,simply click the links I added above and register. There are three venues: Bonifacio Global City, Alabang Town Center and Mall Of Asia. The BGC group started last week. The ATC group will begin on Tuesday next week and the MOA group starts on November 19, 2013. What's interesting about this fitness program is that this time, I'll be joining a group. I will be with others who share the same concerns, worries and passion for a healthy lifestyle.

I'll be blogging my progress every week. I'll be posting pictures too. I'm also on Twitter via @coffeegoddes and I have an FB account. So, these are my platforms to journal my second journey, my second chance at choosing wellness.

Wish me luck!

Picture Book Month 2013 Round Up of Champions: Nov. 4 - 7, 2013

Fantastic ideas and thoughts on picture books!

Picture books are important because pictures are what initially attract a child to a book and, from there, to the whole process of reading.
 
Larry Dane Brimmer, Nov. 4, 2013


I am baffled that there exists the debate of “either/or” when it comes to picture books as actual books versus ebooks. It seems to me that we are talking about two very different things, and hopefully, both have their place in the world. I would love to see the ebook evolve into something that works with and/or complements the book, rather than compete with and try to be a facimile or skeuomorph of the physical book. Just as there are many ways in which the ebook can not duplicate the wonders of the physical book (i.e. trim size, page turn, tactile experience, etc.), similarly, there are ways in which the physical book can not duplicate the potential wonders of an electronic supplement to the story (i.e. animation, sound effects, interactivity,etc.)

Laura Vaccaro Seeger, Nov. 5, 2013

Picture books give the reader a chance to be a part of the story, controlling the pace by deciding when to turn the page, when to linger over a special word or sentence, when to leap ahead or jump back in the story, and when a book is really good, to turn back to page one and start reading all over again. In real life, we can’t do these things.

Daniel Kirk, Nov. 6, 2013

And because they’re picture books, the words tell only half the story. The rest is revealed by the art, which helps kids notice details in the world around them, plants the seeds for art appreciation, and teaches them to look beyond words for emotional clues with respect to communication.

Emma Walton Hamilton, Nov. 7, 2013

Picture Book Month is an international literacy initiative that celebrates the print picture book during the month of November.

Kids & Their Stories @ the 3rd ReaderCon

It's only three more days to the 3rd ReaderCon. It will commence at the Rizal Library on November 9, 2013. Dr. Von Totanes, director of Rizal Library, will open this event celebrating books, reading and literacy. This year, I'll be facilitating  a panel, Kids and Their Stories, where authors interview kids and teens who are the audience of that panel. As the theme for this year's ReaderCon proposes, What do Readers Want?, the panelists aim to know what kids and teens are reading and what they want to see on the shelves of libraries and bookstores.

This panel is beneficial to writers, illustrators and publishers of children's and YA books because the information they can get from the audience have a direct effect on their craft and on the business of publishing. But isn't this the same information we school librarians want to know and make use of too? It sounds like market research in action but having a conversion with kids can be a well of insights that can help us improve the process and content in developing the library's collection.

The PBBY will have a booth in the book reco fair at 1PM where the winning books of the NCBA 2010 and 2012 will be featured. Later on in the afternoon, winners of the Filipino Readers' Choice Award will be announced and book discussions by different book discussion groups will take place. It is going to be an exciting day for all book lovers and readers big and small.

Such activities are wonderful ways to celebrate books and reading! If you are a school librarian and you are free on November 9, 2013 attend the 3rd ReaderCon. It is a place where you can learn new things, unlearn some, and relearn a lot.

Looking for Andoy: Makabagong Watawat ng Katipunan

http://adarnahouse.wordpress.com/2013/10/21/patimpalak-watawag-ng-katipunan/">Visit the blog of Adarna House foe details.

Picture Book of the Month Champions: Mike Shoulders and Bobbi Miller

Picture Book Month is up and about and here's what two champions think about picture books and their relevance.

Yes, picture books teach colors, numbers, the cadence of rhythms and rhymes, but also a love of the written word… ALL essentials for eventual success in classrooms and a good life.
                                                        Mike Shoulders, November 2, 2013 PBM Champion

 In reading such picture books, a young reader learns to appreciate the language itself. Language is more than mere words. It’s the rhythms and the patterns, the musicality of language. Studies suggest that language acquisition is keyed to youth, and likewise, we can infer, is language appreciation. Our language reflects what lives inside us: our hopes and dreams, our history and our future.

                                                          Bobbi Miller, November 3, 2013 PBM Champion

And while were at it, I ask you what you're favorite ABC-123 picture book is? What about history that's presented in picture book format? I'll tell you mine next blog post!

Picture Book Month: Read! Share! Celebrate!

“Introducing them at a young age to the imaginary world of literature can plant the seed for a lifetime of exploration and investigation.” – Mercer Mayer from his Picture Book Month Essay

                It’s time! Around the world, schools, libraries, booksellers, and book lovers are coming together to celebrate print picture books throughout the month of November. Now in its third year, the initiative is a viral phenomenon and was even featured on Oprah.com. Thousands joined the celebration creating Picture Book Month events across the United States as well as in Australia, Hungary, India, Jamaica, the Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. Bloggers came together and wrote about their favorite picture books using the daily themes on the Picture Book Month Calendar created by Elizabeth O. Dulemba. A school in Budapest, Hungary read over 6,000 picture books during the 2012 Picture Book Month!

                The website, PictureBookMonth.com, features essays from thought leaders in the children’s literature community. Each day in November, a new essay is posted. This year’s Picture Book Month Champions are: David Adler, Dianna Aston, Rick Anderson, Larry Dane Brimner, Julie Danielson, Carmen Agra Deedy, Tomie dePaola, Emma Walton Hamilton, Rebecca Emberly, Sue Fliess, Zarah Gagatiga, Candace Fleming, Lee Harper, Jannie Ho, Steve Jenkins, Daniel Kirk, Jesse Klausmeier, Mercer Mayer, Bobbi Miller, Wendell Minor, Hazel G. Mitchell, Jerry Pinkney, Robert Quackenbush, April Pulley Sayre, Rob Scotton, Laura Vaccaro Seeger, Michael Shoulders, Wendi Silvano, Heidi Stemple, and Rosemary Wells.

                Support for the initiative continues with partners such as the American Booksellers Association, the American Association of School, the Children’s Book Council, Reading is Fundamental, and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators as well as industry trade journals such as Hornbook and School Library Journal. A downloadable promotional kit is available as well as certificates, posters, and bookmarks created by Joyce Wan. Brain Burps About Books Podcast, the #1 kidlit podcast on iTunes, is dedicating the entire month of November to Picture Book Month. Picture Book Month even has a new Teacher Guide created by Marcie Colleen.

                Founder Dianne de Las Casas says, “We’ve had a record number of registrations this year. I know it’s going to be an exciting celebration!”

                Join the celebration! Visit www.picturebookmonth.com.

“A childhood is enriched by the memories that reside within the covers of a favourite book.” – Rob Scotton from his Picture Book Month Essay

“Celebrate the magic that happens when words and pictures come together to tell you a story.” – Rebecca Emberley from her Picture Book Month Essay

Bookmark Collection

I have started a small collection. So.

Filipino Friday (4): This is Still Reading Right?

This Filipino Friday, the questions that must be answered are:

Do you read (or have at least tried to read) books in other formats aside from print? How was your experience with these different book formats?

Yes, I do read books in electronic format. In fact, my decision to buy an iPhone was prompted by reading on mobility. I just have to read to while away the time at the doctor's clinic; in the FX terminal; in long lines at the grocery store; or when I'm stuck in traffic going to work and back home. I find these gaps as precious reading time. Books come in handy, but, the iPhone is, handier.

In the library where I work, I have set up an e-reader and e-book collection. We have four Kindles for circulation. Each Kindle  has an assigned Dewey Decimal Classification group or division. 800 (Literature) and 900 (History) are both grouped with Fiction. I like the ease of book acquisition in a Kindle. Amazon sure knows what good service is all about. It even has a way of knowing what I order so it recommends titles very so often. I spend time, a lot of time, analyzing the content of Amazon's recommendations. So this means, I read a lot online too! I check reviews of recommended e-books not only in Amazon but also in blogs of book reviewers. With my knowledge of the library's readers' profile, preference and the school's curriculum, I decide which ones to buy. The budget for e-books has been prepared over the summer.

So, if you think librarians simply sit behind the desk all day, think again. There's a lot of cognitive activity going on behind a librarian's desk. I hope to set up a digital library collection soon but studying on a suitable app is an investment on time and money.

This year, I've read The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, The Magicians, Peaches for Father Francis, Mr. Penumbra's 24 Hour Bookstore, The Fault in Our Stars and a host of paranormal, erotic romance on my iPhone's and Mac's Kindle. Nothing changed for me, as far as the reading experience is concerned, except that, the sensory experience of smelling paper and feeling its texture was diminished. For deep reading that require analysis and synthesis, like non-fiction reads I do for my paper presentations, I still go for the printed format. I need to take notes, physically and manually to remember important sentences, phrases and paragraphs. Such writing from these non-fiction reads I go back to when I prepare my citations and when I actually compose a conference paper or an academic article.

I think what the digital age require of us, readers and book lovers all, is the knowledge of how to read and why we read. Purpose and function. Reading from a variety of formats can be taught and  learned but the reason for reading and the application of reading in real life is a wisdom that grows and develop over time.

A Book Exchange Project by Papemelroti

This book shelf stands outside the Papemelroti store at the Korben Place. The main building is at the corner of Chino Roces and Sct. Tobias in Quezon City. It's my favorite gift shop because the art and crafts products the store sells is very Filipino. There's a homey and rustic appeal to everything they sell there: from stationery to little cute figurines; wood crafts, paper crafts, house decors and, a recent addition, accessories!

I was in the neighborhood last week and before heading home down south, I dropped by the store to pick up a Nativity set and wall clock. What welcomed me by the entrance door was this handsome bookshelf.

I love the shelf! I wish I can have one at home.

But the idea behind the shelf thrills me even more. What kind of store owners would think of putting up a book exchange library project but those who run Papemelroti? Indeed, their creativity is not limited to arts and crafts, design and managing a store. It extends to an advocacy that these young store owners and artists feel passionate about: books and reading!

Their Leave A Book Take A Book project welcomes customers and buyers to leave a book they've read and take one in exchange. It is so cool!

Picture Book Month 2013 Champion: Tomie dePaola

Head on to the website of http://picturebookmonth.com/">Picture Book Month
where you'll read http://picturebookmonth.com/2013/11/why-picture-books-are-important-by-tomie-depaola/">Tomie dePaola's explanation on the importance of picture books
. Here's an excerpt that touched my heart -

I propose that Picture Books can be great art and great art makes for a great people and a great society. Perhaps this is not necessarily true, but would this attitude be so damaging? I think not.

Tomie dePaola is known among Filipino school librarians and teachers as the author of Strega Nona, The Pop Corn Book, and The Clown of God to mention a few. He whips up another magical tale in his new book Strega Nona Does It Again.

My short take on the importance of picture books will be posted on November 23. My Daddy! My One and Only (Lampara Books, 2013) a book I wrote with illustrations by the very talented Jomike Tejido, is the featured book of the day.

If you are celebrating Picture Book Month, blog or tweet about your activities. Use the hashtag #picturebookmonth. Tag me if you upload pictures and activities over at FB. You can also visit the website of Picture Book Month (PBM) and tell Dianne De LasCasas, founder of PBM, of your activities.

Read! Share! Celebrate!

Filipino Friday The Pinoy Book Drop: Where did I drop 'em?

Dropped at the Pancake House, Festival  Mall, Alabang

Dropped at the Activity center of Pavilion Mall, Binan, Laguna

What the tissue paper told the books on the shelf

November is National Books and Library and Information Services Month. Now let's do a little meme and enjoy some library humor.

Version 1
A wad of tissue to books on the shelf: You are all a lucky lot! I get noses most of the time. On bad days, well, you know I get %*$#.

Version 2
A wad of tissue to books on the shelf: Stop complaining that no one ever read books anymore but dust mites. I get mucus, sweat, tears, sometimes blood, and yes, s*$# - all the time!

Which version do you like better? Do you have your own version to share? This meme is simple: download the photo and post it in your FB wall or in your Twitter account. Then add your own version of what the tissue paper told the books on the shelf.

Have fun! Be a LAUGHrarian!

Happy National Books and Library and Information Services Month!