All great universities have libraries that cater not only to the reading materials needed by its students, but evolve with their learning and studying needs.
On Feb. 28, Friday, the University of Mindanao (UM) proceeded closer to that vision.
UM President Dr. Guillermo P. Torres Jr. with members of the UM Board of Trustees, heads of offices, and deans of the colleges witnessed the installation of the final structural component piece of the 1.3-hectare UM Main Library Building in a ceremonial rites, signaling its speedy path to completion within this year.
According to Principal Architect Dean Iluminado C. Quinto of the College of Architecture and Fine Arts Education, the UM Main Library Building seeks to provide an environment that does not feel constricting, an ambience conducive for studying, a space where discussion is encouraged via closed discussion rooms so as not to disturb the learning common area, and an inviting aura that welcomes all students and school personnel who might need a quiet place to focus on their studies.
“In planning it, we really focused on making this building as accessible as possible, and that every square meter could be utilized by students as a possible learning space,” Quinto said. This means hallways with abundant seating, and an al fresco café area also in the works for those who might want a bite while they are poring over their books.
With more than 4,000sqm per floor, the three-storey structure sitting on 1.3 hectares at the expansive UM Matina Campus is set to be a sight to see as it will also be the largest, free-standing library structure in Mindanao with a capacity to entertain thousands of UMians daily; surrounded by lush vegetation integrated in its design that has become commonplace with the buildings located at the UM Matina Campus.
Dr. Torres Jr., in his address to the attendees, attested to the structural integrity of the building. He said that all teams involved in the building’s creation assured it can withstand even magnitude 8 earthquakes.
“This building, upon its completion, is an investment for the future of our students as the library is of course a repository of knowledge,” Dr. Torres said.
By Salud Isabel Petalcorin
