The National Library of the Philippines reopens its reading room to the public
We live in a time when information is easily accessible at our fingertips, thanks to the internet.
However, a treasure trove of knowledge is still concealed inside book pages, silently sitting there and waiting to be rediscovered again and again.
This is where libraries come in.
And speaking of which, the National Library of the Philippines (NLP) in Manila just announced that its reading room is now open to welcome the public.
This means that people who are looking for a quiet place to study or do leisure reading can visit the NLP for free.
What's more, visitors have the chance to access the many books and reading materials housed inside the library.
The NLP is open from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Ready to go? Not just yet, however. The NLP reminds that walk-in is not allowed and that readers and bookworms must register first to book their slots.
The library will only accommodate 100 readers per day, and slot reservation is on a first-come, first-served basis only.
Here are the reminders to keep in mind when planning to visit the NLP:
Photo by: National Library of the Philippines (Facebook)
Photo by: National Library of the Philippines (Facebook)
No less than esteemed historian and book author, Ambeth Ocampo, is endorsing and encouraging the public to visit the NLP during their spare time.
Ocampo, who is known for his many books and studies on our national hero, Jose Rizal, was the first visitor to the library's reading room when it reopened last Monday, February 22.
“[I] was the first reader at the National Library today, first day they opened since lockdown,” wrote Ocampo on Facebook.
“Got my QR code online last night (only 100 readers per day), got my Library ID and barcode upon arrival (no plastic card yet) logged in and placed a request, book was delivered within five minutes. Not perfect but a good job.
“Cold aircon, pleasant staff, books are sanitized after use. Much improved service compared to my first visit in the 1980s. Will return for real research soon.”
For more information, visit the Facebook page of the NLP or its website to see the library's vast catalog of reading materials. You can also contact the numbers, (+632) 5310-5056 and (+632) 5310-5029
Looking for more cultural places to visit around Manila? Perhaps you can also check out the historic Intramuros, which recently just reopened three of its attractions - Fort Santiago, Casa Manila Museum, and Baluarte de San Diego - to the public.