Ruby Galvez, RL

 As the world moves deeper into the digital age, librarians in the Philippines are faced with unique challenges. From adapting to new technologies to ensuring access to information for all, today’s librarians must address both the opportunities and obstacles that come with modernizing library services. Below, we explore the top concerns that shape the future of librarianship in the country. Digital Preservation: Safeguarding the Future of Knowledge   In a time when books and documents are increasingly digitized, one of the biggest challenges for librarians is understanding how to preserve digital content. Ensuring that valuable materials remain accessible for future generations is more than just converting physical texts into digital formats—it’s about long-term storage, managing file formats that might become obsolete, and guaranteeing data integrity. Information Literacy: Empowering Users in the Digital World   With the explosion of information available online, a critical role of to

I've had the pleasure of meeting mang Nanie (Hernando Guanlao) who founded and operates Reading Club 2000 when we were both in a panel during the Philippine International Literary Festival in 2019. Such a remarkable and humble man. From the Reading Club 2000 about page , at Nanie's Reading Club, there is no membership, borrower's card or ID required. One may keep the books or return them. "I encourage sharing with their neighbors when they are done", Nanie explains.  There's no set system, and it has always worked out for this informal library and its users. Located at 1454 Balagtas St., Barangay La Paz, Makati City, Reading Club 2000 offers a unique twist on the traditional library. Just a few kilometers from the bustling financial district of Makati, this community hub, nestled on the corner of Archimedes Street, invites book lovers to explore its treasure trove of thousands of donated books without the usual structure you'd expect from a library.      

I’m thrilled to announce the launch of my brand-new banner on Creative Fabrica! If you’ve never heard of Creative Fabrica, it’s time to introduce you to this teeming and thriving community of artists, educators, entrepreneurs, and crafters. Whether you’re a creator looking for inspiration or someone who loves to support independent artists, Creative Fabrica is the place to be. What is Creative Fabrica? Creative Fabrica is an online marketplace where creators like me can share and sell digital designs, fonts, crafts, and more. But it's not just a store—it's a hub for collaboration, learning, and growing your creative skills. Imagine a place where you can find everything from SVG cut files to crochet patterns to teaching tools. The best part? The community is always buzzing with activity, full of creators sharing their work and buyers looking for unique designs to bring their projects to life. Why I Love Creative Fabrica One of the reasons I love being part of Creative Fabrica is

Unleash the creativity of young minds with our exciting kids' craft ideas, perfect for sparking imagination and bringing fun to any library makerspace event!  Materials: Blank notebooks or journals Magazines, colored paper, and scrap fabric Scissors Glue sticks Markers, pens, and colored pencils Stickers and washi tape Mod Podge and brushes Alphabet stickers or stamps Instructions: Prepare the Journals: Provide each child with a blank notebook or journal. If the covers are plain, they can paint or color them first. Create Collage Materials: Kids can browse through magazines and cut out images, patterns, or words they like. Provide colored paper, scrap fabric, and stickers for additional materials. Design the Cover: Using glue sticks, kids can arrange and attach their chosen images, words, and patterns to the cover of their journals. Encourage layering and overlapping for a true collage effect. Add Personalization: Kids can use alphabet stickers or stamps to add their names or f

Who'd have thought DIY Nature-Inspired Wind Chimes would belong to libraries? These crafts are perfect for keeping young users occupied, although this would work best if the library is near a garden or has a garden. This makerspace idea is great for library marketing and attracting users. Materials: Twigs or small branches String, yarn, or twine Natural beads, shells, and wooden discs Scissors Hole punch (for wooden discs) Paint and brushes Feathers, leaves, and other natural elements Metal bells or chime tubes (optional) Instructions: Prepare the Base: Gather twigs or small branches that will serve as the top of the wind chime. Kids can paint or decorate them with markers if desired. Create Hanging Elements: Kids can cut lengths of string or twine to create hanging strands. They can thread natural beads, shells, and wooden discs onto the strings. For wooden discs, a hole punch can be used to make holes. Add Natural Elements: Incorporate feathers, leaves, and other natural eleme

 Traditional artists often face several challenges when trying to earn money online. While the internet provides vast opportunities for showcasing and selling art, there are specific barriers that can prevent traditional artists from achieving financial success in the digital space:  1. Digital Skill Gap    - Lack of Technical Skills: Traditional artists may lack the technical skills needed to navigate online platforms, set up digital shops, or market themselves effectively online.     - Learning Curve: The transition from traditional methods to digital tools and platforms can be daunting, requiring time and effort to learn. 2. Marketing and Self-Promotion    - Limited Marketing Knowledge: Successful online selling requires effective marketing strategies. Many traditional artists may not be familiar with digital marketing techniques like social media promotion, SEO, email marketing, and paid advertising.    - Reluctance to Self-Promote: Some artists might feel uncomfortable promoting t

Earning online has been the most fascinating aspect of internet culture for me, and I have found many avenues for this interest, the most recent and lucrative of which is Creative Fabrica . Sign up with my affiliate link if you're interested:  https://www.creativefabrica.com/ref/2135193/ Tips to Maximize Earnings Online Understand Your Audience : Cater to a niche market or specific audience to stand out. If your past projects and ideas suggest you have a good sense of what your audience might find valuable, keep doing it. How do you know? If you get a lot of likes and comments, it means people (your potential customers) are interactive and interested. Offer Value : Ensure your products provide significant value or solve a problem. High-quality content tends to attract more buyers and word-of-mouth referrals. Offering value is a crucial principle for success in any business, especially when selling products online. To "offer value" means to create products that meet a spec

If you barely have enough time to go online, you'll want a side hustle that's low-maintenance, flexible, and doesn't require constant attention. Here are a few options: Print-on-Demand Store : Create simple designs for t-shirts, mugs, or notebooks. You can use platforms like Redbubble or Teespring, where they handle printing, shipping, and customer service. Your main task is to create and upload designs, which can be done in short bursts of time. Selling Digital Products : If you have expertise in a particular area, you can create digital products like eBooks, templates, or printables. These can be sold on platforms like Etsy, Gumroad, or my favorite platform, Creative Fabrica. After the initial creation, the products can generate passive income with minimal ongoing effort.               Here's my online store on Creative Fabrica if you need an  example (this is also an affiliate link):  https://www.creativefabrica.com/designer/ruby-cari-galvez/ref/2135193/ Stock Photog

 If you love the meditative escape that adult coloring books provide, the “Enchanted Library” collection is like stepping into a world where magic and literature entwine. This set of 200 unique coloring pages invites you to explore whimsical libraries filled with secrets, ancient books, and mystical creatures, all waiting for your personal touch. Volume 2 of the “Enchanted Library” series is designed with adult colorists in mind, offering a captivating blend of intricate details and imaginative themes. Each page is like a gateway to a magical library, where every corner reveals a new story. You’ll find yourself drawn into scenes of towering bookshelves, glowing lanterns, and hidden nooks that spark curiosity and wonder. The illustrations are rich with fantasy elements—imagine books that float, glowing orbs, and mythical beings like dragons and pixies, all set against a backdrop of gothic and medieval-inspired architecture. These pages offer the perfect canvas for you to experiment with

Library crafts are a fun way to keep users engaged, especially the young ones. This works for the library because children will remember the place as somewhere to have fun and learn art and not a place where a librarian is always shushing them and telling them not to make a mess! Materials: Cardboard or thick foam board Craft knife or scissors Colored paper and cardstock Butterfly and flower templates or pre-cut shapes Glue sticks Double-sided tape Markers, glitter, and stickers Small faux flowers, fabric butterflies, or other embellishments Paint and brushes (optional) Instructions: Create the Base Letters: Pre-cut large 3D letters from cardboard or foam board. Alternatively, have kids trace and cut out their own letters with supervision. Decorate with Paint: Let kids paint the letters in their favorite colors, and allow them to dry. Cut Out Butterflies and Flowers: Kids can use templates to trace and cut out butterflies and flowers from colored paper or cardstock. Alternatively, p

 As someone who prides herself on meticulous travel planning, my four-day reconnaissance mission to Singapore was nothing short of enlightening. The goal? Master the MRT system and pinpoint the best hawker centers, all to ensure that my visit wouldn't involve hemorrhaging money on taxis.  Spoiler: taxis in Singapore are the real budget busters . A ride to a nearby area would cost around 12 dollars, which was equivalent to three meals in a hawker's center or one fancy meal in a sit-down restaurant.  Intimidated by the MRT System in Singapore The MRT map initially looked like a rainbow spaghetti dish—a chaotic tangle of lines that seemed impossible to decipher. North-South Line, East-West Line, Circle Line... the names alone were daunting. But my perspective changed as soon as I realized how EASY it was to move around the entire city using this system. It's not lauded as one of the best MRT systems in the world for nothing.  I'll break down the steps I used to use MRT and

There's a place in Balaoan La Union where tourists flock to glide through winding lagoons and go to Immuki Island. This is not just another picturesque destination in La Union; it carries a name and lore that piques curiosity and invites a deeper exploration of its unique charm. Funny Island and Lagoon Names and Their Evolution The origin of its name is very cool. The name "Immuki" originates from the Ilocano word "uki," which refers to the female genitalia. This association comes from the island's main lagoon, which, to many, resembles this part of the anatomy. The shape of this lagoon has been the subject of fascination and amusement, earning the island its distinctive name. Immuki literally means "it assumed the shape of a vagina." The playful and imaginative minds of the island’s admirers didn't stop with the main lagoon. Over time, and through generations of word-of-mouth storytelling, the other lagoons on the island also received names in

I am a native of San Fernando and am very familiar with Macho Temple, yet I'm as confused as most tourists when it comes to the image of the holy lady enshrined there. Yes, it's a CHINESE temple, but... Many Taoist and Catholic devotees have accepted without question that mama deity Ma-Cho and our Lady of Caysasay are the same person. As the Chinese deity, she sacrificed her life while trying to save seafarers endangered by rough seas. She died at the young age of 28. However, she is also recognized as a miraculous image of the Virgin Mary by the Catholic church. All these baffling thoughts converge and don't really require any clarification as tourists and locals simply enjoy the seabreeze that permeates the hill where this lady's temple is located. Ma-Cho Temple, the first Taoist temple in the Philippines and one of the largest outside of China. Perched on a hill in downtown San Fernando, it offers breathtaking views of the South China Sea, making it an ideal h

One of the best places to self-publish and earn royalties is Amazon KDP! But what if you're not a writer? I've found that book designing is as good as being an author if you're after selling a book or workbooks for profit. Here's one of the books I made that can be sold on KDP (done-for-you by me):  E-scooter Commute Tracker and Maintenance Logbook It's available at my store on Creative Fabrica . If this link does  not work, copy and paste the following to your browser:  https://www.creativefabrica.com/product/e-scooter-tracking-and-maintenance-kdp/ref/2135193/ Why an Electric Scooter Commute Tracker and Maintenance Logbook would Sell Well on KDP In today's eco-conscious world, electric scooters have become a popular choice for daily commutes. As more people adopt this efficient and green mode of transportation, the need for a reliable way to maintain and monitor their scooters has grown.            1.     Comprehensive Tracking     This logbook offers a thoroug

Hey there, fellow creators! Whether you're a seasoned artist, a passionate designer, or a content creator just starting your journey, you know that the right tools and resources can make a world of difference. That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to  Creative Fabrica , a fantastic platform that's like a treasure trove for all your creative needs. Why Creative Fabrica? You might be wondering, "What makes Creative Fabrica so special?" Well, let me tell you: 1. Endless Resource s: Creative Fabrica offers an extensive library of fonts, graphics, templates, and even digital crafts. It's like having a bottomless toolbox, ready to help you bring your wildest ideas to life. 2. Affordable Pricing : Quality resources can be expensive, but Creative Fabrica provides budget-friendly options, including subscription plans that give you unlimited access to their vast collection. It's a small investment for a huge creative payoff. 3.

Language often holds the key to understanding a culture's values and way of life. In Ilokano, one of the major languages spoken in the Philippines, the word "makawaras" stands out. It translates to "can feed many," encapsulating a significant aspect of Ilokano culture: the importance of community, sharing, and abundance.      The Essence of Makawaras In Ilokano communities, food is more than sustenance; it is a symbol of hospitality, unity, and generosity. "Makawaras" is a term that reflects the communal spirit prevalent among the Ilokano people. It suggests not just the ability to feed many mouths, but also a willingness to share one's resources, however limited they might be. This concept is deeply rooted in the traditional practices of Ilokano families, who often prioritize communal well-being over individual wealth.      A Cultural Practice The idea of "makawaras" is often observed during fiestas, family gatherings, and community cele

After soaking up the sun, waves, and culture in La Union, it’s time to head back to Manila. Back to real life, as they say. If you’re wondering how to make the return journey as smooth as possible, taking a bus is your best bet. Here’s a simple guide to get you back home without a hitch. Choose Your Bus Company Several bus companies operate routes from La Union to Manila, offering a variety of schedules and comfort levels. Partas Transportation Co. : Known for its extensive network and reliable service. Viron Bus Lines : Offers a comfortable ride with good schedules. Dominion Bus Lines : Provides multiple trips daily, making it a convenient option. My preference? Partas. There are buses coming in from other areas in Northern Luzon every hour, but during rush hours (Sunday night when everyone wants to get back to the city in time for the Monday workday), all the buses are packed with people. The buses that travel from La Union usually have the most number of passengers and arriving 30 m

Congratulations, graduates of library science! You've spent years studying the Dewey Decimal System, mastering the art of cataloging, and perfecting the delicate balance between knowledge organization and user accessibility. Now, you're ready to embark on a professional journey that promises to be as fulfilling as it is fascinating. One potential career path is becoming an indexer.      What is an Indexer? An indexer creates indexes for books, journals, and other publications, helping readers find specific information quickly and efficiently. It's a critical role in the world of information science, ensuring that the wealth of knowledge contained within a text is accessible and navigable.     Why Consider Indexing? 1.    Utilize Your Skills   : Indexing leverages your skills in organization, attention to detail, and knowledge of information retrieval. Your education has prepared you well for this meticulous work.     2.    Variety of Work   : Indexers work on a wide range o

Many graduates of Library Science or Information Science that don't end up working in a library get hired as information managers or document controllers. If you are one or you know someone who is, a Document Control Logbook might come in handy. It's on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Document-Control-Logbook-Circulation-Management/dp/B0D8Q1DRV6/   What does a Document Controller Do Exactly? Imagine you're trying to keep your room clean. You have school papers, books, toys, and clothes everywhere. Every time you put something away, someone comes in and leaves more stuff around. This is similar to what a Document Controller deals with at work. Their job is to manage all the important papers (called documents) for a company. Sounds simple, right? Well, not really. Here are some of the challenges they face:      1.   Keeping Track of Everything   A Document Controller must know where every document is at all times. This is like always knowing where your favorite toy or book is

   Traveling to a foreign country is an exciting adventure, but it often comes with the challenge of navigating a new language. Traditional phrasebooks can be helpful, but they sometimes fall short when it comes to actual pronunciation and memory retention. This is where a phrasebook based on phonetics and mnemonics can make a world of difference.     What are Phonetics and Mnemonics?   Phonetics  : This is the study of sounds in human speech. A phonetic phrasebook provides a clear guide on how to pronounce words and phrases as they are spoken by native speakers, using a system that translates sounds into written symbols.   Mnemonics  : These are memory aids that help you remember information more easily. Mnemonics can be in the form of rhymes, acronyms, visual images, or associations that link new information to something familiar. Here's the link to the DIY Korean Phrasebook :  https://www.amazon.com/DIY-Korean-Phrasebook-Instructions-Interaction/dp/B0D6KBFPWX/       Benefits of

Traveling from Manila to La Union might sound daunting, but it's actually quite straightforward. Whether you're seeking the famous surf spots of San Juan or the historic charm of San Fernando, getting there is a breeze. Here’s how you can make your journey as smooth as possible: take a bus. The simplest and most common way to get to La Union from Manila is by bus. Several bus companies operate routes to various destinations in La Union, making it convenient and affordable. Bus Companies that Travel Daily to La Union from Manila and Vice Versa Most of the buses that head north have branches in Cubao (northern part of NCR) and Pasay (southern part of NCR). Note that all buses going to Vigan, Abra, and Laoag will pass by La Union, so it doesn't matter if the sign does not say "La Union." There's a reason our province is called the gateway to the north. Partas Transportation Co. : One of the most popular choices, Partas offers comfortable and reliable services. Th

Graduates of Library Science often find themselves pondering the various career paths they can pursue with their degree. While traditional roles such as librarians and archivists are well-known, one exciting and dynamic option is the role of a Document Manager. This position leverages many of the skills acquired during a Library Science degree while offering opportunities in diverse industries and a chance to work with advanced technologies. What is a Document Manager? A Document Manage r is responsible for the organization, storage, and retrieval of an organization's documents. They ensure that all documents are easily accessible, properly filed, and secure. This role is essential in industries where documentation is critical, such as legal firms, healthcare, finance, and large corporations.      Key Responsibilities of a Document Manager 1.   Document Organization and Classification      - Creating and maintaining an efficient filing system.    - Classifying documents acco

 We're travelling! It's hectic making travel plans in whatever year, but things have definitely improved from when I last booked our family trip to Singapore in 2015. Here are some of the main differences. Aspect 2015 2024 Research and Booking - Relied on travel blogs, Lonely Planet guides, and recommendations from friends. - Use of comprehensive travel apps that integrate flights, accommodations, and activities. - Balance between online platforms and travel agencies. - AI-driven travel planners offering personalized itineraries based on preferences. - Booking flights via airline websites or price comparison sites like Skyscanner and Kayak. - Seamless booking through integrated platforms like Google Travel or Expedia. Accommodation - Agoda and TripAdvisor for finding and booking hotels. - Instant booking and reviews on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. Documentation - Printed tickets, hotel vouchers, and visa documents. - E-tickets, digital hotel confirmations, and e-visas