By: Eloiza P Tagarda and Anne Mary S Dayupay

Cebu City - The ALBASA 50th General Assembly, Conference, and Book Fair, organized by the Academic Libraries Book Acquisition Systems Association (ALBASA), marks a significant milestone in the evolution of library services and community engagement. This year's event was held from 16-19 July 2024 at the Vivace Events Center, Cebu Ocean Park, Cebu City. The event was a grand celebration of half a century of dedication, innovation, collaboration, partnerships, and resilience in the field of library and information science.

The golden anniversary celebration of ALBASA was marked by a diverse range of activities centered around the theme "From Tradition to Transformation: Libraries Shaping the Future Through Innovation and Resilience." The event was a gathering of esteemed librarians, dedicated educators, and influential industry professionals from various regions nationwide. Through engaging discussions, informative sessions, and collaborative workshops, participants had the opportunity to reflect on the significant milestones of the past and also explore the exciting prospects and advancements that lie ahead in the field of librarianship.

XU Library Team

Xavier University Libraries, a longstanding member of ALBASA, was prominently featured in this milestone event. Since joining the organization in 1973, XU Libraries has consistently maintained a pioneering status and has been a dedicated participant in ALBASA's annual gatherings. This year, Mr Rule P Redondo, Director of XU Libraries, took on a significant leadership role, chairing the Conference, CPD Points Application, and Documentation Committees. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the conference’s agenda and ensuring its success. Mr Redondo was supported by a team of dedicated XU Library participants, including Ms Leonita C Sumalinog, Ms Eloiza P Tagarda, Ms Anne Mary S Dayupay, and Mr Jayron E Fajardo. Notably, they also served as members of the Documentation Committee, contributing to the comprehensive recording and reporting of the event.

The first day of the assembly was a poignant blend of reverence and festivity. The event commenced with a Thanksgiving Mass presided over by Fr Dindo Anthony F Fallarme, SVD, which provided a moment of reflection and spiritual grounding for the attendees. Following the Mass, Elisa V Garcia, RL, PhD, President of ALBASA, delivered a heartfelt welcome message. In her address, Dr Garcia highlighted the significance of the 50-year journey of ALBASA, celebrating its achievements and setting the stage for the future. Her message resonated with the audience, emphasizing the importance of the theme and the role of libraries in driving innovation and resilience. The formal opening continued with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, marking the official launch of the event. This symbolized not only the commencement of the assembly but also the beginning of a new chapter in ALBASA's storied history.

The speakers during this event were Engr Gerardo S Doroja, Director for Strategy and Quality Management Office, Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan with the topic: Navigating the Digital Horizon: Enhancing Library Services in a Tech-Driven Era ; Dr Ana Lou Panganiban, Guidance Coordinator III, Technological University of the Philippines-Visayas with the topic: Grit to Great: Sustaining Workplace Positivity Amidst Uncertainty ; Fr Alfonso A Araceli, SVD, Director for Basic Education Department, University of San Carlos with the topic: Preserving The Past, Embracing The Future: The Evolving Role of Libraries ; and Ms Rainera C Boholst, RL, MSLIS, University Librarian, Cebu Institute of Technology-University with the topic: Innovative Approaches and Strategies for Modern Libraries: Reimagining Services, Spaces, and Engagements.

The celebration featured an extensive book fair showcasing the newest publications and resources. The fair provided a great opportunity for attendees to interact with authors, publishers, and new materials that could enrich their collections and professional development. Visitors were encouraged to explore the various booths at the database and book exhibitions. The database exhibition presented state-of-the-art technologies and solutions that are revolutionizing library services, providing insight into the future of information management. The book exhibition included a wide range of publications, reflecting the latest trends and developments in various subjects.

During the Fellowship Night and Awarding Ceremony on the evening of July 17, XU Libraries was given the following prestigious awards and recognition:

• Star Award
  
              This award is given to member institutions in heartfelt recognition and sincere appreciation for being the top-performing member institution at the university level. This prestigious award honors Xavier University for achieving the highest level (Top 1) of quota fulfillment and patronage over the past 50 years.

• Million Maker of the Year Award FY 2023-2024
  
              This award is given to member institutions in grateful recognition and sincere appreciation for its exemplary contribution and outstanding performance (book purchases reached to 1M and above) in the fiscal year 2023-2024. This prestigious award honors the institution's exceptional efforts and significant achievements, highlighting their dedication to excellence and their remarkable impact within the ALBASA community. 

• Lifeline Award
  
              This award is given to member institutions in deep appreciation of their exceptional support and steadfast commitment. This plaque honors member institutions as a vital lifeline, recognizing their unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions during the pandemic by subscribing to online databases through a consortium. Their efforts have been instrumental in sustaining ALBASA's mission and operations during challenging times.

• Plaque of Recognition for Charter Member
  
              This recognition is given to the fifteen (15) founding institutions in grateful recognition of their distinguished contribution as a Charter Member. This plaque honors their dedication and pioneering efforts in establishing a strong foundation for ALBASA. The founding institution’s commitment to fostering collaboration and driving innovation has been instrumental in ALBASA’s growth. Their exceptional leadership and visionary approach continue to inspire and propel ALBASA toward greater achievements.

• Plaque of Recognition for ALBASA BOT Vice President
  
              This recognition is given to Mr Rule P Redondo, LPT, RL, MLIS, Director of XU Libraries in recognition of his selfless and invaluable services rendered to ALBASA, Inc. This plaque honors his dedicated service as Vice President for FY 2022-2023 and FY 2023-2024.

• Plaque of Recognition for Ms Eva B Brillo
  
              This recognition is given to Ms Eva B Brillo, former director of XU Libraries (1973-1979) in grateful recognition of her distinguished contribution as the first Business Manager in 1973. This plaque honors her exceptional service, dedication, and leadership, which have left a lasting impact on ALBASA. Ms Brillo's efforts were key in advancing ALBASA’s mission and ensuring their growth and success, and her legacy continues to inspire.

XU Library team receives the awards and recognition from Dr Elisa V Garcia, ALBASA President
(right) and Ms Leila Lyn R Valenzona, ALBASA Business Manager (left)

As the event drew to a close, Mr Rule P Redondo, ALBASA Vice President and Chairperson of the Conference delivered an impactful and contemplative final address. Looking back on ALBASA’s 50-year evolution, Mr Redondo passionately emphasized the significance of ongoing innovation while paying homage to the organization's deep-rooted legacy. His closing remarks served as a driving force, inspiring participants to embrace the future with unwavering certainty and resilience. This underscored the pivotal role of libraries in shaping a brighter, more hopeful world.

On July 19, participants had the enriching opportunity to explore several of Cebu’s most significant cultural and educational landmarks. They visited the Cebu National Museum, where they immersed themselves in the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. The museum’s exhibits provided valuable context on Cebu's historical development and its impact on the broader Philippine history. Next, participants explored Casa Gorordo, a well-preserved historical house that offered a glimpse into the lifestyle of 19th-century Cebuano elites. The visit to Casa Gorordo deepened participants’ appreciation for Cebu’s historical and architectural heritage. The day concluded with a visit to the Cebu Institute of Technology-University Library, where participants gained insights into the operations and facilities of this prominent local institution. The visit highlighted the innovative practices and resources available at the university library, providing inspiration for enhancing their own library services.

The 50th ALBASA General Assembly, Conference, and Book Fair concluded with an optimistic outlook for the future of libraries. The event successfully married the rich heritage of libraries with the ongoing wave of transformation in the digital era. While honoring past accomplishments, it also charted a path for future advancements. Participants departed the gathering invigorated and equipped to guide their institutions through the changing landscape of library services. The milestone celebration of ALBASA served as a testament to its enduring legacy and served as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role of libraries in promoting education and community involvement in the modern age.