Iloilo City – The University of San Agustin (USA) has officially inaugurated its newly transformed Graduate Studies and Periodicals Libraries, marking a bold step toward modernizing learning spaces for its academic community. The upgraded facilities, blessed during a ceremony led by University President Rev. Fr. Arnel S. Dizon, OSA, emphasize collaboration, innovation, and adaptability to contemporary educational needs.
The redesign, inspired by global trends and benchmarking visits to Singaporean institutions, moves away from the traditional silent-library model, embracing instead a dynamic environment that encourages discussion, creativity, and academic engagement.
“These new libraries stand as a testament to our commitment to continuous improvement, academic excellence, and service to the Augustinian community,” said Rev. Fr. Dizon. “This space is for all of us—students, faculty, researchers, and the broader community.”
The renovation aligns with recommendations from the Philippine Association of Accredited Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU), which urged the university to develop library facilities that better serve evolving academic demands.
The transformed spaces include:
- Graduate Studies Discussion Room: A collaborative hub for group study, meetings, and academic exchanges.
- Graduate Research Hub: A quiet zone dedicated to thesis writing, dissertation work, and focused research.
- Periodical Area: A flexible space for both scholarly reading and leisure.
Additionally, the Library Circulation Book Stacks were relocated to the second floor as a precaution against flooding, ensuring the protection of valuable academic resources.
A Community-Centered Approach
Ms. Rhea Espina,MSLIS, Director of the Learning Resource Center (LRC), highlighted the libraries’ role in fostering inspiration and learning: “Quiet study zones, collaborative work areas, and revitalized reading spaces are now at the heart of our library services—places where inspiration, learning, and community flourish.”
The project incorporated extensive input from students, faculty, and staff, ensuring the spaces meet real academic needs. Rev. Fr. Dizon reflected on the collective effort behind the transformation: “As we bless these spaces today, we are reminded that growth is a collective journey. These libraries symbolize what we can accomplish when we move forward together.”
Beyond academics, the new facilities will serve as venues for meetings, brainstorming sessions, and program development. He expressed pride in fulfilling PAASCU’s recommendations while creating spaces that cater to diverse learning styles.
“These spaces reflect our commitment to improvement and delivering quality education,” he said. “They allow us to remain relevant in serving different generations of learners.”
The university extended gratitude to librarians, administrators, architects, and staff whose dedication made the project possible. With this milestone, the University of San Agustin reaffirms its mission to provide excellent academic services while strengthening its sense of community.
The newly unveiled libraries stand as a testament to USA’s forward-thinking vision—blending tradition with innovation to cultivate an environment where education thrives, ideas flourish, and community bonds grow stronger.
