VILLASIS MUNICIPAL LIBRARY & TECH4ED CENTER

VILLASIS MUNICIPAL LIBRARY LOGO ELEMENTS AND ITS MEANING

The logo was designed by Chrysler Merca, a student of Barangobong National High School. Merca’s design was his

entry during the Digital Logo-Making Contest conducted by Villasis Municipal Library during the celebration of its

4 th year anniversary on October 8, 2018. It was unanimously chosen by the board of judges among the five entries.

A Municipal Resolution was created and passed to the Sangguniang Bayan Office for its approval to make the logo

as the official seal of Villasis Municipal Library. Along with it, the following are the elements and its significance:

Double Circles- It represents the circles of support, influence that surround us including family, friends, teachers, and advocates

Sky- It represents some of the most beautiful, amazing desires of life, and to feel the freedom.

Mountain- It pertains a high level of accomplishments. The peak of all struggles and hope.

Ricefield- It means abundance, reap, and harvest. A manna of living.

Book- It symbolizes learning and knowledge, not only today but universally across different times and cultures. It will take you lands away. A book of widening horizons and wisdom.

Torch- It represents as an enlightenment, a carrier of victory, and love for all of us.

People- They are the greatest creations of God, and the steward of all His creations.

Wi-fi- The waves represent the strength and power of the devices connection to the wi

fi of some area, and a sign of information and progress all over the world.

VISION

. By 2030, Villasis Municipal Library will be a leading community hub for lifelong learning, culture, innovation, and civic engagement—empowering every Villasisian through accessible knowledge, inclusive services, and meaningful community partnerships toward a sustainable and progressive Villasis.

MISSION

To provide free, equitable, and inclusive access to information, knowledge, technology, and learning opportunities; promote literacy, lifelong learning, culture, innovation, and civic engagement; and empower all residents of Villasis through responsive library services and meaningful community partnerships toward sustainable and inclusive community development.

GOALS

Promote Literacy and Lifelong Learning : Foster reading, literacy, and continuous learning for all ages.
Expand Access to Information and Technology: Provide equitable access to information, digital resources, and technology.
Empower Communities through Skills Development : Build knowledge, digital skills, and practical competencies for personal and community development.
Preserve and Promote Local Culture: Protect and promote Villasis’ history, heritage, traditions, and identity.
Strengthen Community Engagement and Partnerships: Build meaningful partnerships and activities that connect and empower the community.
Advance Innovation and Digital Transformation: Use technology and innovative approaches to improve library services.
Ensure Inclusive and Accessible Services: Provide responsive, equitable, and accessible services for all residents.
Improve Services through Evaluation: Monitor performance and use feedback and evidence to continuously improve services.

OBJECTIVES

Literacy & Lifelong Learning: Increase participation in reading and learning programs.
Information & Digital Access: Expand access to information and digital resources.
Skills & Community Empowerment : Provide skills-development programs for the community.
Culture & Local Heritage: Promote Villasis’ culture, heritage, and identity.
Community Engagement & Partnerships : Strengthen partnerships and community outreach.
Innovation & Digital Transformation: Use technology and social media to improve services and reach.
Inclusion & Accessibility: Provide programs for diverse and underserved sectors.
Service Quality & Continuous Improvement: Monitor performance and use feedback to improve services.

VILLASIS MUNICIPAL LIBRARY

History at a Glance

The Villasis Municipal Library (VML) has grown from a modest collection of books into a dynamic community hub for learning, information, technology, culture, and public service. Its history reflects resilience, innovation, and a continuing commitment to making knowledge and opportunities accessible to every resident of Villasis.

From Humble Beginnings

VML was originally housed on the second floor of the old Municipal Hall under the Office of the Mayor. It was later transferred to the Legislative Building, where it was managed by dedicated librarians and designated employees who helped sustain its services to the community.

2009 | A Test of Resilience

In October 2009, Typhoon Pepeng caused severe flooding in Villasis when the dikes along the Agno River were damaged. The library was among those affected, with books, computers, furniture, and other resources submerged. The disaster forced the temporary closure of the library but became a turning point toward rebuilding and renewal.

2014 | A New Beginning

Following the renovation of the Legislative Building, the library was provided with a larger and more suitable space at the former Post Office location. On October 8, 2014, the Villasis Municipal Library was blessed and formally reopened. Mrs. Merly S. Zambrano was designated to manage the library, ushering in a new period of growth, promotion, and expanded community service.

2016 | Embracing Digital Transformation

In July 2016, VML became a Tech4ED Center of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). This expanded the library's role beyond books to include digital literacy, internet access, online learning, skills development, and e-government services. Free assistance in accessing government online services has since become one of the library's most valued services.

2020–2022 | Bringing the Library Beyond Its Walls

During the COVID-19 pandemic, VML demonstrated resilience and innovation through community-based outreach. VILL and ASIS, the library's bicycle-riding librarian mascots, brought storytelling, books, learning materials, and information to children and families in far-flung barangays. The initiative kept the spirit of literacy and library service alive despite the challenges of the pandemic.

Expanding Through Partnerships

VML has continuously strengthened its programs through partnerships with government agencies, schools, libraries, civic organizations, youth groups, businesses, volunteers, and donors. These collaborations have provided computers, laptops, books, school supplies, literacy activities, digital skills training, feeding programs, and other community services. Partnerships have also supported the establishment of Barangay Reading Centers in Lipay, Caramutan, and Bacag.

Today | A Library That Serves and Connects

From surviving a devastating flood to embracing technology and community innovation, VML continues to evolve with the needs of its people. Its growing clientele, volunteers, donors, and partners demonstrate the library's increasing role in community life.

Today, the Villasis Municipal Library is more than a place for books. It is a community hub where people learn, connect, access technology, discover opportunities, preserve culture, and participate in development.

A Legacy of Resilience. A Culture of Innovation. A Commitment to Community.

Villasis Municipal Library — bringing knowledge, technology, and opportunities closer to the people.

Significant Milestones

October 8, 2014: The newly renovated Villasis Municipal Library (VML) was blessed and reopened to the public under the administration of former Mayor Libradita G. Abrenica.

July 26, 2016: VML was established as the first and only Tech4ED Center in Villasis, launched province-wide at the Pangasinan Provincial Library in Lingayen, Pangasinan.

NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS AND COMMENDATIONS

The Villasis Municipal Library (VML) has consistently demonstrated excellence, innovation, diligence, and commitment to public service. Its achievements over the years reflect its transformation into a recognized model of responsive, technology-enabled, and community-centered public librarianship.

2017 | Recognition for Innovation and Digital Service

March 2017 – Received a Plaque of Distinction for providing innovative and relevant 21st-century library services from Beyond Access, IREX, the National Library of the Philippines, and MDFI.
July 2017 – Recognized among the Top 14 Performing Tech4ED Centers in Luzon Cluster 2 by DICT.
September 2017 – Named a Finalist in the Outstanding Tech4ED Center – Emerging Category at the National Tech4ED Awards.
September 2017 – Ranked 3rd among the Top Performing Tech4ED Centers – Library Category nationwide.

2018 | Excellence in Performance and Reporting

January–March 2018 – Consistently ranked No. 1 Most Diligent Public Library in the submission of monthly statistical reports by the National Library of the Philippines.
March 2018 – Recognized as a Completer for the January–December 2017 online submission of reports.
September 2018 – Placed 3rd in the Search for the Best Success Stories of Luzon Cluster I.
December 2018 – Recognized as an Outstanding Tech4ED Center – Emerging Category at the National Tech4ED Awards.

2019–2023 | Sustained National Excellence

March 2019 – Named the Most Diligent Public Library in the Philippines.
February 2020 – Ranked 7th Most Diligent Public Library in the Philippines for 2019.
March 2021 – Ranked 3rd Most Diligent Public Library in the Philippines for 2020.
February 2022 – Ranked 4th Most Diligent Public Library in the Philippines for 2021.
August 2022 – Received the 3rd Prize – Gawad Parangal sa Natatanging Propesyunal na Tagapangasiwa ng Pampublikong Aklatan.
March 2023 – Ranked 2nd Most Diligent Public Library in the Philippines for 2022.

These consecutive recognitions demonstrate VML's sustained commitment to professional accountability, quality service, accurate reporting, innovation, and community responsiveness.

2024 | A Landmark Year of National Recognition

The year 2024 marked a significant milestone in VML's history:

1st Prize – 2024 Gawad Pampublikong Aklatan
Public Library Achievement Award
Top Performing Public Library in the Philippines for 2023
2023 Public Library of the Year

These distinctions were conferred through the National Library of the Philippines, The Asia Foundation, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Philippine Information Agency, affirming VML's outstanding contribution to public librarianship and community development.

2025 | Excellence in Public Librarianship and Digital Empowerment

October 2025 – The Municipal Librarian was recognized as Outstanding Public Librarian in the Philippines by the Association of Librarians in Public Sectors (ALPS), Inc.
October 2025 – The Municipal Librarian was also recognized as one of the Most Outstanding Center Managers in the Philippines through the National Tech4ED Awards of DICT, highlighting exemplary leadership in digital inclusion and community technology services.
Provincial and Municipal Resolution Recognition – Beyond national and professional distinctions, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan and the Municipality of Villasis formally recognized the Municipal Librarian through respective resolutions for her significant and invaluable contributions to the community. These legislative recognitions affirm her role not only as a champion of literacy, lifelong learning, and access to information, but also as a community leader and advocate for digital inclusion, innovation, empowerment, and responsive public service. The resolutions reflect the local government's appreciation of her leadership and the positive impact of the Villasis Municipal Library's programs and services on the people of Villasis and the wider community.

2017–Present | A Continuing Culture of Excellence

Since 2017, VML has consistently been recognized as a Completer in the submission of monthly reports to the National Library of the Philippines and its partners. This sustained record reflects the library's culture of discipline, accountability, professionalism, and excellence in public service.

A Legacy of Excellence

From its early recognition for innovation and digital services to its national awards for library excellence and professional leadership, the Villasis Municipal Library continues to demonstrate that a local public library can become a catalyst for literacy, digital inclusion, lifelong learning, and community development.

Its awards are not merely measures of achievement—they are milestones in a continuing commitment to serve, innovate, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people of Villasis.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the library staff adapted their outreach services by visiting barangays through the innovative personas of VILL and ASIS. These characters were created to represent the Villasis Municipal Library, embodying the spirit of community service and literacy promotion.

VILL and ASIS, the librarian-assistants, are known for riding bicycles and traveling to the far-flung barangays of the municipality. During their visits, they conduct impromptu storytelling sessions along the streets whenever they encounter groups of children. They also distribute storybooks, coloring materials, hygiene and protective items, and other small gifts to bring joy to the children, even if only for a brief moment.

In addition to engaging with children, VILL and ASIS distribute pamphlets to promote the library and its services, ensuring that the community remains informed and connected to the resources available at the Villasis Municipal Library. This initiative has not only maintained but strengthened the library's presence and impact during challenging times.

VILLASIS MUNICIPAL LIBRARY ONLINE REFERENCE ASSISTANCE

(ViMLORA)

Purpose of ViMLORA

The purpose of ViMLORA is to provide fast, real time online reference assistance to clients at the time they need help.

Policy

● The service is for anyone who has questions relating to Villasis Municipal Library or for any informational question.

● Currently, we use chat services, Viber and phone call and text messages, and google form as platforms to submit client’s queries/requests. We also have an active FB Page and Google site for updates on library services, programs and activities.

● Queries will be recorded and transcripts for frequently asked questions will be saved for future references in terms of training and development and improvement of the library services.

● Statistics are recorded and collected for report generations.

● Since the services are online, clients’s need to have access to the Internet to be able to avail of the services.

Level of Service

● Villasis Municipal Library Online Reference Assistance is available 24/7. This is another means in educating clients to locate and utilize library rescues and the Internet effectively. The service will be monitored by librarians and staff. They will entertain informational questions/queries from clients regarding the services that the library offers. Queries/questions can be answered either by one of them.

● There is no particular amount of time to be spent with a client; however, some questions may require the client to be referred to other libraries nearby offering the same services for further assistance, assisted by messenger, phone call and text, or email.

● This service provides research assistance on topics like legal, medical, financial but will not offer advice in these areas.

Clientele

This policy defines the primary clientele for the Library Online Reference Assistance, which is the community in general, students, educators, business owners, senior citizens, women, etc.

Online Reference Tools

The services can be availed through the following platforms or channels:

● Facebook Page : https://www.facebook.com/Villasis-Municipal-Library

● E-mail: villasis.mzambrano@gmail.com

● Google site: https://sites.google.com/view/villasis-municipal-library/home?fbclid=IwAR1s5kfbsv38F8B5vZG6MPEEIYcR13SXv89vVmJDDSe9yL4l96BnKghaHoU

● Messenger

● Call and Text via Viber or Phone (0917 1307677)

● Phone calls (0917 136 5509)

● Landline (075 6324974)

Appropriate Behavior

● Library staff has the right to refuse service to clients who use inappropriate language and behavior.

● Staff will not tolerate inappropriate behavior in all online transactions. They will be handled at the discretion of the library personnel.

● No obscene or derogatory remarks will be tolerated.

● Solicitations, in any form, will be allowed.

● Clients should not give our personal information such as credit card numbers or bank account numbers, PIN numbers, passwords, and the like.

Privacy

All transactions between library staff and patrons, including transcripts from chat and text messages, are treated as confidential and private, except when it might be required by law. The same attitude is used towards any data gathered for evaluation purposes. If patrons’ chat or message transcripts or surveys are kept for evaluation purposes, all identifying information is unrevealed.

Definition of Terms

Online Reference Assistance - a reference service initiated electronically where computers, smartphones or any other internet technology tool are employed to communicate with the reference staff, without being physically present.

Clients - these are the individuals who avail the online reference assistance of the library.

Online Reference Services - these are the services the library provides to its clients through the online reference assistance program like processing of e-government transactions and other online transitions, borrowing of information resources, etc.

Appropriate Behaviors - these are the expected conduct of clients that shows respect to the library personnel and with others.