The Weekly Sillimanian

Transformative learning spaces await in newly-launched SU Lib

Pending permits delay physical operations

By Kean Andrei Bagaipo

The Silliman community will soon immerse in a “dynamic hub of learning and innovation” through Silliman University’s (SU) newly-inaugurated library, according to Global Studies Center (GSC) Director Dr. Dave Marcial. 

Attended by university administrators, guests, and student representatives, the Uytengsu Transformative Learning Center was officially launched at the Robert B. and Metta J. Silliman Library last Jan. 20.

Marcial emphasized that the donated project of the Uytengsu Foundation Inc. combines “technology, creativity, and collaboration” into one transformative space.

“This  transformative  laboratory  empowers  students  and  faculty  and  the  general  community  to  explore,  create,  and  innovate,” he said.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the improved library features a mini-laboratory, which Marcial described as a “groundbreaking,  transdisciplinary,  and  holistic  initiative” towards learning and innovation.

Three transformative spaces

As a proponent of the transformative learning spaces, Marcial unveiled the major services offered in the three floors of the library.

These include the 15th Digital Library, the Allied Health Transformative Lab, and the Immersive Technology and Installation Lab, which are found on the ground floor.

The second floor houses the library’s vast collection of books, journals, and resources, while the third floor serves as a mobile space for collaboration and learning activities.

“This  initially  aligns  with  our  commitment  to  fostering  cutting-edge  research,  digital  literacy,  and  hands-on  learning  experiences,” Marcial said. 

To complement the traditional offerings, the GSC developed seven innovative library services: hybrid and remote access, personalized assistance, digital  wealth help, borrowing, knowledge creation services, community and collaborating spaces, and an immersive hub.

“It also  highlights our dedicated librarians and library staff who have embraced the  disruptive library innovation by learning, rescaling, upscaling, and retooling to adapt to the  changing library landscape,” Marcial explained. 

Revamped facilities

Within 19 months of renovation works, the 46-year-old library underwent architectural modification, such as the replacement of steel-framed windows with curtain-walls and improvement of circulation spaces and safety exits.

Other utilities installed include an automatic fire suppression system, fire detection and alarm system, ceiling-mounted air conditioners, CCTVs, and Wi-Fi. An elevator is also available for persons with disabilities and elderly, as well as for transporting heavy equipment.

SU Architecture Department Chair Ar. Vittorio Alejandro Vinarao said that the plan was to transform a brutalist-inspired building into a “modern, inclusive, and technology-driven” hub.

“Here, we espouse a response to the changing needs of a university embracing  technological  advances  at  the  same  time  concerning  the  building’s  iconic  architectural  identity and historical significance,” Vinarao added. 

Physical services

According to the Office of Media and Public Affairs, the library will open its physical services once the necessary permits for occupancy and operations are available which are still in progress.

Meanwhile, Engr. Lloyd R. Tenaja, department head of the Dumaguete City Engineer’s Office confirmed that only the building permit was given as the Office of the City Building Official has not yet received an occupancy permit application from the university.

For the meantime, students can still access various online resources in SU’s e-library system

While the library primarily serves the school community, SU Librarian Sarah Angiela Ragay said that it will also be opened to the public.

“We strive to provide access to educational resources ensuring we meet the community’s information needs. Additionally, we aim to offer access to advanced technologies that outside users may avail but with an associated fee,” Ragay stated.

The inauguration and blessing ceremony was graced by members of the Uymatiao family, faculty and staff members, SU Board of Trustees represented by Grace A. Ty, and other partner corporations. 

 

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