About PLAI

Learn about the Philippine Librarians Association, Inc. — its history, vision, mission, core values, goals, objectives, constitution & by-laws, and operational guidelines.

History of PLAI

The Philippine Library Association (PLAI) traces its beginnings to the early 1920s, when Filipino librarians recognized the need for professional collaboration and the development of library services in the country.

Between 1920 and 1923, a group of six professional librarians returned to the Philippines from the United States where they received training in library science as government scholarship grantees. They were Gabriel A. Bernardo, Eulogio Rodriguez, Jose Munda, and Cirilo B. Perez from the Wisconsin Library School; Isaac V. Lucero from the University of Illinois; and Isidoro Saniel from the New York State Library School.

Recognizing the growing importance of popular libraries and the need for an exchange of professional ideas, these librarians approached Dr. Trinidad H. Pardo de Tavera, then Director of the Philippine Library and Museum, and proposed the establishment of a library association.

On October 22, 1923, Director Tavera convened a conference of librarians and other individuals interested in organizing an association of libraries. This gathering marked the birth of the Philippine Library Association.

During the same meeting, the first set of officers was elected. Dr. Trinidad H. Pardo de Tavera was unanimously elected President. Mr. Jose Zurbito became Vice-President, while Mr. Cirilo B. Perez and Mrs. Rosa Abriol were elected Secretary and Treasurer.

Of the thirty-three charter members, five were Americans while the rest were Filipino library staff members. At the time, library resources in Manila were limited and largely unorganized.

Vision

The PLAI is a strong and dynamic association committed to the advancement of the practice of librarianship towards national development.

Mission

Anchored on its vision, the PLAI shall promote the interest and welfare of its members, and develop capacities for quality library and information service.

Core Values

PLAI is guided by the core values of Professionalism, Leadership, Advocacy, and Innovation — shaping its commitment to excellence, service, unity, and transformative growth in the library and information profession.

P
Professionalism
We uphold the highest standards of ethics, competence, accountability, and excellence in the practice of librarianship and information work.
L
Leadership
We promote visionary, collaborative, and transformative leadership that empowers members, strengthens institutions, and advances the profession.
A
Advocacy
We champion the value of libraries, librarians, information access, intellectual freedom, and lifelong learning for national development.
I
Innovation
We embrace creativity, adaptability, and technology-driven solutions to respond effectively to the changing needs of libraries and communities.

Goal

Constant and never-ending involvement of library professionals in the activities, programs, and projects of the Association.

General Objectives

To accomplish its vision, mission, and goal, the Association has the following objectives:

  1. To oblige all practicing librarians to be duly registered and affiliated with the Association as mandated by law;
  2. To undertake programs/projects or activities that will ensure the growth and development of libraries, librarianship, and librarians in the country;
  3. To provide a venue to discuss problems, issues, and concerns affecting the practice of librarianship, the association, and its members;
  4. To strengthen linkages with local, national, and international organizations, as well as partnerships with institutions and agencies in the government and private sectors;
  5. To undertake research and publications affecting the profession;
  6. To conduct regular continuing professional development activities for its members.

Note: Revised on September 20, 2014

Constitution & By-Laws (CBL)

CBL Document Coming Soon

The Constitution and By-Laws of the Philippine Librarians Association, Inc. will be posted here. Please check back or contact the PLAI Secretariat for a copy.

Guidelines

Guidelines Coming Soon

Operational guidelines for PLAI members and chapters will be posted here. Please check back or contact the PLAI Secretariat for more information.