The Visayas State University Learning Commons, originally known as the VSU Library, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the decades. Its history dates back to 1961, when the institution was still the Visayas Agricultural College, and the library was nothing more than a simple reading room with limited resources. Despite its humble beginnings, it laid the foundation for what would become a thriving academic hub.
From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Center of Knowledge
The initial library was managed by Miss Nenita Borneo, with only a small collection of light reading materials housed in closed wooden shelves. As the institution grew, so did the library. In the 1970s, Peace Corps Volunteers Charles Parham and Eric Hanson contributed significantly to expanding the library’s collection, which occupied the Cabaldon Building by 1978. This marked its official designation as the College Library under the Visayas State College of Agriculture (ViSCA).
Early leadership played a crucial role in shaping the library. Mrs. Ellen Mendoza, followed by Mrs. Rebecca Napiere, managed the library during its early years. With ViSCA President Dr. Bernardo's insistence, Mrs. Linda Miranda took charge and initiated further professionalization by sending Mrs. Napiere to UP Diliman for her Master’s degree in Library Science.
A Period of Growth and Expansion
In the 1990s, the library continued to flourish, with the construction of a new building near the ViSCA Administration Building, and the collection was relocated there in 1994. This new building was situated beside the main administrative building on the upper campus, where the library served the academic needs of undergraduate and graduate students for several years.
With the library's relocation, the original library building on the lower campus, which was located in the right wing of the Administration Building along Heritage Lane, was repurposed. It was converted into the Integrated High School Library, serving the VSU Integrated High School community. This dual-purpose building now serves both the administrative and educational needs of VSU's lower campus.
Under Mrs. Miranda's leadership, several initiatives improved the library’s services, including partnerships with the Philippine Root Crops Research and Training Center, which brought advanced equipment like Microfiche Readers and microfilm cameras. Direct purchases of books further enriched the collection, making the library one of the premier academic libraries in the region.
The Digital Age and Technological Advancements
Mrs. Miranda’s retirement in 2000 marked the beginning of a new era under Mrs. Rebecca Napiere, who had just completed her Master’s degree. Her tenure coincided with the rise of digital technology. Computers were introduced to library operations, giving students access to resources like CD-ROM databases, such as TEEAL. Mrs. Napiere also oversaw the implementation of the Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) and a web-based Library Management System (LMS) known as SILMS, which replaced the in-house CATALOG system.
Under Mrs. Napiere, the library became involved in various collaborative initiatives like the Philippine E-Lib and KulturaLink. These efforts were part of her vision to modernize the library and prepare it for future challenges.
Leadership and Continued Growth
After Mrs. Napiere’s retirement, Mrs. Andreli D. Pardales took over the library’s modernization efforts, implementing the Follett Destiny Library Manager and overseeing the barcoding and RFID tagging of books. Under her leadership, the library embraced more advanced technology, further strengthening its role in academic research. Her leadership was recognized regionally and nationally, earning her the title of Best Librarian in Region 8 in 2015.
In 2019, the library’s new facility opened, marking the beginning of a new era for the VSU Learning Commons. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 forced a shift to digital services, with the library adapting to offer remote access to its resources. During this challenging period, Mrs. Pardales retired, and Mr. Vicente A. Gilos took over as Officer-in-Charge and later became Chief Librarian in 2021.
Transition to a Modern Learning Commons
In 2021, the VSU Library completed its transformation into the Visayas State University Learning Commons, housed in a state-of-the-art three-story building. This modern facility, the largest of its kind in Eastern Visayas, offers a range of new amenities:
Located strategically across the Department of Computer Science and Technology, the Learning Commons was designed to meet the growing academic demands of the VSU community and provide a collaborative, technology-driven learning environment. The university's commitment to modernizing its library services was further demonstrated by the introduction of digital innovations.
Digital Innovation and Cultural Preservation
The VSU Learning Commons is not only a hub for academic research but also plays a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage of the Philippines. In 2022, the university embarked on a major digitization project funded by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). This initiative aimed to digitize Filipiniana materials, making these cultural treasures accessible to a broader audience.
Additionally, the library partnered with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to digitize research publications, particularly in the fields of agriculture, aquatic resources, and natural sciences. These partnerships highlight the Learning Commons' commitment to both digital innovation and the preservation of the nation’s rich cultural history.
A Vision for the Future
The Visayas State University Learning Commons is now more than just a library. It has become a dynamic space that fosters academic success, supports research, and preserves cultural heritage. Whether through its state-of-the-art facilities, extensive digital resources, or its focus on cultural preservation, the Learning Commons plays an integral role in the academic and cultural life of the VSU community. It continues to evolve, ensuring that students, faculty, and researchers have access to the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.