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

-------------------------------------------

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/

5 Books That Make You Better at Getting Things Done

1. The Power of Full Engagement by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz This book says energy is more important than time. Weird, right? But it makes sense. The authors say we should work like athletes — focus hard for a bit, then take real breaks to rest and recharge. Instead of running on empty all week, you learn to build routines that give you energy, not drain it. Basically, it’s saying: stop acting like a robot and start acting like a human who takes naps. 2. Getting Things Done by David Allen If your brain feels like a messy desk full of sticky notes, this book is your cleaning guide. David Allen teaches you how to put every task, idea, or reminder somewhere safe — so your mind can finally relax. Once you’ve written everything down, you can actually focus on what’s in front of you instead of wondering what you forgot. It’s for people who want to feel calm, in control, and slightly smug about their tidy to-do lists. 3. The Effective Executive by Peter Drucker Peter Drucker is...

10 Benefits of Becoming a Board Topnotcher in the Philippines

Becoming a board topnotcher in the Philippines is a highly esteemed achievement that can have significant benefits for an individual's professional and personal life. These benefits span across various aspects, including career opportunities, personal growth, and societal impact. 10 Reasons Board Topnotchers are a Big Deal in the Philippines 1. Enhanced Career Opportunities : Achieving topnotcher status in board exams in the Philippines often opens doors to a plethora of career opportunities. Many employers, particularly in competitive fields such as engineering, accountancy, and law, view topnotchers as individuals with exceptional capabilities and a strong work ethic. As a result, topnotchers often receive job offers from prestigious firms, government agencies, and private corporations. Additionally, they are frequently offered higher starting salaries, leadership roles, and opportunities for advanced training and education. 2. Professional Recognition and Credibility : Topnotche...

Do Small Libraries Need a Hard Copy of the Library Bibliographic Data?

Get your paperback copy of Library Bibliographic Data book from Amazon through this link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B7QBGNKR A hard copy of something is simply a physical ink-on-paper version of what is in the library database. Some librarians say it is cumbersome to keep a hard copy when the soft copy is already there, one simply has to log into the system. But the hard copy of library bibliographic data can be an essential resource for small libraries for several reasons: 1. Backup for Digital Records : While many libraries have digital systems for cataloging their collections, hardcopies serve as a reliable backup in case of digital data loss due to system failures, cyber-attacks, or other unforeseen events. This ensures that the library's catalog remains accessible even in the face of technical difficulties. 2. Accessibility : Not all library patrons may be comfortable or familiar with digital search systems. Hardcopy bibliographies allow these patrons to access bibliograph...

Being Stressed is Never a Flex

Stress and being overworked are synonyms. The notion of work stress has become an almost ubiquitous part of our lives. It's not uncommon to hear individuals boasting about how busy they are, how many tasks they have to juggle, and how little sleep they're getting. Some even wear their stress as a badge of honor, treating it as a sign of productivity and dedication. However, being stressed is not a flex, nor should it be glorified. In fact, it can have serious negative implications for both our physical and mental well-being. Stress is not a Status Symbol The idea that being stressed indicates importance or achievement is a flawed concept. True accomplishment is not measured by the number of hours spent working or the amount of anxiety one feels. Rather, it's about the work quality, the impact made and the ability to maintain a balanced life. A A person who manages their time effectively and prioritizes self-care is often more successful in the long run than someone perpet...

A Librarian's Take on "I Kissed Shara Wheeler" by Casey McQuiston: What I Liked and Disliked

The Allure of the Narrative Casey McQuiston's "I Kissed Shara Wheeler" is a compelling read that delves into the complexities of young love, identity, and the pursuit of self-discovery. The narrative is imbued with a sense of urgency and emotional depth that captures the reader's attention from the get-go. McQuiston's storytelling prowess shines through, making it a standout in the young adult romance genre. One of the most commendable aspects of the book is its nuanced portrayal of characters. Shara Wheeler is not just another love interest; she's a multi-dimensional character with her own dreams, fears, and complexities. This adds a layer of realism to the story, making it relatable to a broad spectrum of readers. The Challenges: A Double-Edged Sword However, the book is not without its challenges. The pacing can be a bit uneven, with some sections dragging on longer than necessary. This can be particularly taxing for readers who prefer a more streamlined ...

Weekly Facebook Reel Content Suggestions (#001): Themed Daily Reels

I've noticed individuals posting reels that feature repetitive activities, so I thought it would be helpful to offer some fresh ideas for those who are looking for inspiration. This is just the beginning, as I plan to share a series of suggestions specifically aimed at enhancing your Facebook reel content. Keep an eye out for more to come. Themes for Facebook Reels With Execution Tips Monday #MotivationMonday Share a personal story or tip that motivates your audience to start the week strong. Talk about how setting small goals can lead to big achievements. Show a clip of you completing a small task and celebrating it. | Tuesday #TravelTuesday Showcase a local spot or hidden gem. Doesn't have to be far, could even be a cool café or park. Visit a local mural and talk about the artist or the message behind it. | Wednesday #WellnessWednesday Share a wellness tip or routine that helps you stay balanced. Demonstrate a 5-minute meditation or b...

Mastering the Art of Legible Handwriting: A Guide for Students and Adults

In the digital age, the art of handwriting often takes a backseat. However, the importance of writing legibly cannot be overstated, especially for students and adults in various professional fields. Whether it's jotting down notes, signing documents, or sending a handwritten letter, clear and legible handwriting ensures effective communication. This guide focuses on handwriting improvement, emphasizing cursive writing and various handwriting exercises that can help you write more legibly. Understanding the Importance of Handwriting Improvement Handwriting is not just about aesthetics; it's a fundamental tool for learning, especially for students. Research shows that writing information by hand enhances memory retention and comprehension. For adults, legible handwriting in the workplace is a sign of professionalism and attention to detail. Therefore, investing time in handwriting improvement is essential for personal and professional development. Embracing Cursive Writing for ...

Common and Oddball Niches to Pursue on Amazon KDP

In my blogs about making money online, I mentioned selling journals and logbooks on Amazon KDP. In some cases, I make journals out of ideas and inspirations I get from my life as a librarian, mother of a young adult, and a restaurateur/party caterer. I may sell the journals myself (selling mined gold) or sell them to people who might want to develop them as their own products on Amazon KDP (selling shovels for others to mine gold with). If you want to find out more about the latter, here is the link to my Creative Fabrica store: https://www.creativefabrica.com/designer/ruby-cari-galvez/ref/2135193/ In my brainstorming, I thought of several oddball and common niches that I could develop products around. Here they are... First-Time Homeowner's Planner – Step-by-step guidance and to-do lists for managing house projects, budgeting, and maintenance. Solo Hiking Journal – A log for solo hikers to track routes, wildlife sightings, reflections, and survival tips. Eco-Conscio...

How Important is Proper Document Control in ISO Accreditation?

If your organization is working toward ISO accreditation—or trying to maintain it—you’ve probably heard the phrase document control more times than you care to count. But before your eyes glaze over, let’s break it down. ISO standards (like ISO 9001 for quality management, ISO 14001 for environmental management, or ISO 27001 for information security) are built on the idea of consistency, traceability, and accountability. None of that works without proper documentation. And documentation doesn’t stay proper on its own. It needs structure. That’s where document control comes in. So, how important is it? In short: it's everything. What Is Document Control in the ISO Context? Document control refers to how an organization manages its critical documents—such as procedures, manuals, forms, and records—so that they are: Correct (the latest version) Accessible (to the right people) Secure (from unauthorized changes) Traceable (who approved, changed, or accessed them)...

Check Out My New Creative Fabrica Store Banner

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...

Ruby Galvez, RL

Search This Blog