Establishment of Public Libraries and Reading Centers

The National Library, in coordination with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), will establish additional public libraries and barangay reading centers
Exceptions for areas with existing libraries or reading centers
Development programs to be coordinated with local development councils and barangay councils
Existing libraries and centers to be upgraded by the National Library
Continuous training and seminars for librarians to improve professional skills

Supply standard reference books and materials (encyclopedias, dictionaries, maps, globes) upon establishment
Provide additional books, non-book materials, equipment, and supplies based on community needs
Ensure relevant and appropriate reference and reading materials are available

Public libraries and reading centers to be part of local government development plans
Barangays are responsible for providing sites for barangay reading centers

National implementation plan covers an initial period of five years
Priority given to congressional districts, cities, and municipalities without existing libraries, and to remote, isolated, rural barangays
Within 120 days from effectivity, National Library, in consultation with DILG, DPWH, and local units, must list priority areas considering local commitment

Provide community access to a wide range of reading materials including Department of Education, Culture and Sports prescribed materials and national newspapers
Serve as venues for audio-visual presentations, exhibitions, and activities to promote literacy
Support information dissemination by government, NGOs, and private entities
Offer related services that further the objectives of the Act

Necessary funds to be included in the General Appropriations Act for the year following enactment and for five years thereafter
Local government units to maintain libraries and reading centers after this period
National Library to continue providing reading materials and supplies

Director of the National Library must submit progress reports to both Houses of Congress within 90 days of approval and annually thereafter

National Library, with DILG and Philippine Information Agency (PIA), to promulgate implementing rules and regulations within 60 days of approval

All inconsistent laws, decrees, orders, and issuances are repealed or amended accordingly
If any provision is declared unconstitutional or inoperative, other provisions remain effective
Act takes effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation