InfoSkilled program of the UL recognized as Outstanding Library Program
The “InfoSkilled: UPLB Fostering Lifelong Learning” program of the UPLB University Library was recognized as the Outstanding Library Program of the Year by the Philippine Association of Academic/Research Librarians (PAARL).
University Librarian Mary Ann Ingua, alongside InfoSkilled 2024 Committee Chair Renz Cao and other esteemed committee members, accepted the award presented during PAARL’s 52nd General Assembly on 31 January 2025 at the National Teachers College in Manila.
“InfoSkilled: UPLB Fostering Lifelong Learning” is a rebranded information literacy (IL) program that was officially launched during the Library Fair held on 10 September 2023. The program aims to develop information-literate individuals by equipping them with essential skills for effective and efficient information access through lifelong learning activities.
As part of the library’s regular activities, the program features a modular lecture series on its fundamental components, including LibSmart, a general orientation on library resources and services; LibSmart+, a library orientation on specific requested topics; InfoLite, an introduction to key IL concepts; and InfoLit Advanced, an in-depth discussion of the four IL concepts—identifying, finding, evaluating, and acknowledging information.
The program, traditionally part of student orientations in partnership with the Office of Counseling and Guidance-OVCSA, was expanded to reach a wider audience through an online event streamed on Zoom and Facebook Live, engaging more students and academics.
PAARL recognized the program for its innovation, sustainability, and impact on the library community, noting its potential for adoption by other library communities and institutions.
As one of the nation’s largest organizations of professional librarians, PAARL is focused on advancing academic librarianship and developing library programs in the Philippines. This recognition reaffirms the institutional library’s role in promoting information literacy and lifelong learning. (Ammanessi Joy S. Lapitan)
