Definitions
- Barangay: Basic political unit and primary government planning and implementing unit at the community level.
- Barangay Reading Center: Public library established and maintained by a Barangay catering to its residents.
- BRC In-Charge: Person managing day-to-day activities of the BRC, with duties similar to a librarian.
- City: Urban political unit with governance functions and coordination.
- City Library: Public library maintained by the city for local residents.
- Librarian: Licensed professional recognized under R.A. No. 6966.
- Library: Organized collection of books and materials for reading and study.
- Public Library: Library maintained by the city or Barangay for public use.
Establishment and Functions of Barangay Reading Centers
- Mandatory establishment of BRCs in all Barangays without existing libraries.
- Functions include providing diverse reading materials, including those prescribed by the Department of Education.
- Venue for audio-visual presentations and exhibitions to enhance literacy.
- Platform for dissemination of general information by government and private entities.
Staffing and Remuneration
- Appointment of one BRC In-Charge per center with at least two years of college education and a first-level eligibility.
- Monthly allowance for BRC In-Charge set at Php 8,000.
- Additional staffing requires a separate ordinance and additional appropriations.
Financial Appropriations
- Barangays must allocate Php 100,000 annually from their budget to fund the BRC startup.
- Annual allowance for BRC In-Charge (Php 96,000) included in the budget.
Responsibilities of the Punong Barangay
- Provide annual budget sourced from Barangay income and permit fees.
- Allocate adequate space within Barangay facilities for the Reading Center.
- Provide furniture, equipment such as audio-visual aids, computers, and adequate up-to-date reading materials.
Delegation and Oversight
- Punong Barangay and Barangay Council members can be deputized by City Librarian for BRC functions.
Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)
- MOA between National Library and Quezon City Government through City Librarian ensures sustainability.
- National Library to supply books and materials annually in accordance with R.A. No. 7743.
Barangay Library Board Structure and Friends of the Library
- Barangay Library Board composed of Punong Barangay (Chair), Committee on Education Chair, youth representative, BRC In-Charge (Secretary), Treasurer, and Friends of the Library president.
- Board to serve as advisory body, policy maker, and ensure continuity.
- Friends of the Barangay Reading Center organized to support library projects and activities.
Functions of Barangay Library Board
- Determine supplementary budget needs per National Library criteria.
- Authorize fund disbursement and advise Barangay Council on library matters.
- Create committees for library management functions including personnel and operations.
- Promote increase of library collections and facility improvements.
Meetings, Quorum, and Budget Approval
- Meetings held twice yearly or as needed.
- Quorum is a simple majority.
- BRC In-Charge prepares budget supported by programs and activities.
- Majority vote required for budget approval including compensation of members.
Operating Hours of Barangay Reading Centers
- Open Monday to Saturday.
- Monday hours: 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m.
- Tuesday to Saturday hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Punong Barangay administratively liable for failure to comply.
- Barangay required to return allocated funds if ordinance provisions are unmet.
Repealing Clause
- Ordinances inconsistent with this ordinance are repealed or modified accordingly.
Separability Clause
- If any provision declared unconstitutional, other provisions remain effective.
Effectivity Clause
- Ordinance takes effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation.