UST Library partners with Unionbank to conserve, digitize centuries-old collections
FOLLOWING the success of the Lumina Pandit Exhibition in 2011, the University of Santo Tomas Miguel de Benavides Library has embarked on a program that aims at the preservation and utilization of its heritage library and archival collections.
The project, formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement with Unionbank which was signed last April 27 will be presented to the public on May 26, 4:30 p.m., at the ground floor of the UST Library.
The multi-million project dubbed as “Lumina Pandit II” is supported by Unionbank and encompasses three components, namely: conservation, digitization and publication of the UST Library and UST Archives’ historical collections dated 1492 to 1900, which survived both human and natural ravages.
“We care about the historical collections of the UST Library that served as text books and reading materials for our students throughout 400 years and that have been pivotal in the formation and growth of the nation,” said UST Prefect of Libraries Fr. Angel Aparicio, O.P.
Currently, about 1,000,000 pages have been scanned and are being uploaded in the Internet through digital collection management software CONTENTdm. With Lumina Pandit II, the world will be able to have a glimpse of the UST Library’s rich collection through the Internet.
Likewise, publication of catalogues of all historical collections that covers 16th to 19th centuries, reprinting of selected UST Press’ old editions and other publications that have lasting value for the understanding of Philippine history and culture have taken place. As of press time, six catalogues have already been published.
“These are books read by Filipinos then, the same books read by the best-educated of Europe during that time. We at Unionbank are grateful to UST for its willingness to share its national heritage. With this program, UST and Unionbank can enrich ‘ang pagkataong Filipino’ to become the best of who we are,” said Unionbank chair and CEO Justo A. Ortiz.