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The Pros and Cons of a "Free Library" Without a Cataloging System: A Look at Reading Club 2000

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.

       Pros:

1.     A True Treasure Hunt    : Without a cataloging system, every visit becomes an adventure. Instead of relying on a database to guide your choices, you're free to browse through books at your own pace, discovering unexpected gems that may not have caught your eye otherwise. As the creators of the library’s website put it, they left with books they considered “genuine treasures.”


2.     Community Spirit    : The absence of a formal system fosters a sense of community and personal connection. Visitors are encouraged to chat with Nanie, the man behind the library, to learn about the available books. This creates a more intimate experience, where people bond over their love for reading and share stories about the books they’ve found.


3.     Accessible and Open    : The library is open to everyone, with no membership fees or stringent rules. The informal borrowing system means that anyone can pop in, browse, and borrow, contributing to a more relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.


       Cons:

1.     Limited Organization    : For those who like structure, the lack of a cataloging system can be frustrating. If you're looking for a specific book or topic, finding it among the thousands of books without a guide can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.


2.     Potential for Chaos    : With no system to track books, some might get lost or damaged over time. The library relies on the honor system, which, while fostering trust, may not always guarantee that books are returned in a timely manner or at all.


3.     Less Efficient Use of Time    : For visitors on a time crunch or with a specific reading need, the unstructured nature of the library can be overwhelming. You might spend hours looking for a book that may not even be there.


Despite these drawbacks, the Reading Club 2000 stands out for its generosity and the communal energy that flows through its operation. The library not only offers a space for free books but also promotes giving back, whether through donating books, clothes, or other resources. It's a space driven by the spirit of sharing and community, offering a unique literary experience in the heart of Makati

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Check out this cute t-shirt design I found on Creative Fabrica (affiliate link included).


https://www.creativefabrica.com/product/the-library-is-my-happy-place/ref/2135193/


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