QC Public Library opens doors to street kids

Street children listen to a Quezon City Library and Information Center employee, who also teaches them how to read. Photos: Quezon City Public Affairs and Information Services Office

Street children are probably used to being turned away everywhere they go, but there is at least one place where they are welcomed with open arms: the Quezon City Library and Information Center (QCLIC).

Also known as the Quezon City Public Library, the QCLIC can be found in the Quezon City Hall compound in Diliman.

Every day, according to a statement from the Quezon City Public Affairs and Information Office (PAISO), at least ten street kids visit the library, where they read books, color illustrations, play, and watch educational videos with the guidance of library staff and volunteers.

And since most of the time they come to the library on an empty stomach, said head librarian Emelita L. Villanueva, the QCLIC provides them with snacks as well.

“These small library guests, who usually visit the QCLIC in slippers, shorts and sando, enjoy learning new words, explore the world through reading, and learn the values they will be proud of when they grow old,” she said.

“Aside from teaching them how to read, we listen to their life stories and sentiments, give inspiring advice if needed,” Villanueva added.

According to PAISO, the QCLIC's collection of 2,617 books includes textbooks, coloring books, reference books, Filipino folklores and fables, and Disney stories. — BM, GMA News