HB07330: AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PUBLIC LIBRARY IN ALL CITIES AND MUNICIPALITIES AND A READING CENTER IN ALL BARANGAYS, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7743
This bill seeks to institutionalize the establishment of a public library in every city and municipality and a reading center in every barangay across the Philippines. It aims to promote the moral and intellectual well-being of the populace and recognize the vital role of knowledge and information in nation-building, consistent with existing national policy. The bill mandates local government units (LGUs) to establish these facilities within one year of the Act's effectivity and provide the necessary budgetary appropriations for their operating expenditures and capital outlays.
The proposed law outlines the functions of these public libraries and reading centers, which include making a varied selection of reading materials available to the community, serving as venues for cultural activities to increase literacy and civic responsibility, and offering other related services. The National Library of the Philippines (NLP) will oversee these establishments, providing accreditation, evaluation, standard material lists, and training for librarians. The funding for sustainable management will be included in the regular budget of LGUs, augmented by the national government, grants, and donations.