Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris Delivers Books to Cebu City Library for Lifelong Learning

Imagine dusty shelves coming alive—eight boxes of carefully chosen books unloaded one by one, unlocking new worlds for eager minds in the heart of Cebu City.

On December 4, 2025, warm sunlight streamed through the tall windows of the Cebu City Public Library as the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris (RCCGM) formally turned over eight overflowing boxes of books, rekindling the joy of reading and learning for the community. The handover was led by Past President Gay Marie Tiu and Secretary Dorothy Borces, whose smiles reflected the shared excitement felt by library staff, patrons, and fellow Rotarians present during the meaningful exchange.

The story behind the donation began months earlier during RCCGM’s lively club meetings, inspired by observations made during community visits. Members noticed library corners with aging and limited reading materials—spaces that still held promise but needed renewed support. “Books are bridges,” Past President Tiu shared, capturing the club’s collective belief that access to knowledge opens doors to opportunity. Motivated by this vision, the members rallied together to gather donations that would truly make a difference.

The collection included timeless Filipino classics such as Noli Me Tangere, contemporary young adult novels, children’s storybooks, and Cebuano folktales that celebrate local culture and heritage. Each of the eight sturdy boxes, weighing approximately 20 kilograms each, symbolized more than printed pages—they represented portals to imagination, understanding, and hope for readers whose access to new books is often limited by economic constraints.

During the turnover, Secretary Borces emphasized the deeper meaning of the initiative amid warm applause. “These aren’t just books,” she said. “They are seeds—seeds for Cebu’s future innovators, storytellers, educators, and healers.”

Library staff nodded in agreement, sharing stories of children who regularly visit the library and eagerly read whatever materials are available. With the new collection, these young readers will soon explore broader perspectives and richer narratives.

This project strongly aligns with Rotary International’s Areas of Focus, particularly Basic Education and Literacy, while also supporting Community Economic Development through the promotion of lifelong learning. By strengthening public access to diverse and updated reading materials, RCCGM addresses literacy gaps and empowers individuals to think critically, build confidence, and pursue personal growth. In an increasingly digital world, physical books continue to foster focus, imagination, cultural pride, and equal opportunity—essential foundations for a thriving society.

“Books bridge divides, turning readers into leaders—one page at a time,” Past President Tiu reflected.

For RCCGM, an all-women Rotary club grounded in sisterhood and service, education holds a special place. In a rapidly developing Cebu, where progress and challenges coexist, nurturing young minds ensures that growth remains inclusive and sustainable. As the books found their new homes on library shelves, a young patron opened The Little Prince, eyes lighting up with wonder.

That moment captured the essence of the project. RCCGM did not simply donate books—they planted enduring roots of knowledge and inspiration. In Rotary’s ongoing story of service, this chapter stands as a testament to how a simple, heartfelt act can illuminate a city’s future—one book, one reader, one dream at a time.