12 students graduate from Master in Library and Information Science with Specialization in Theological Librarianship (MTLIS)
During the 88th Commencement Exercises Program of Central Philippine University, twelve (12) scholars from the member schools of ATESEA graduated from the degree Master in Library and Information Science with Specialization in Theological Librarianship (MTLIS) on April 17, 2016. This is a two-year graduate degree program of Central Philippine University in the Philippines which is geared towards providing continuous education for librarians of theological schools in Asia. The said program aims to equip the theological librarians with advanced knowledge and skills in organizing, retrieving, consolidating and disseminating all types of relevant information in theological libraries.
Twelve (12) ATESEA member schools from six (6) countries sent their librarians to study in the said degree program:
1. Indonesia
a. Universitas Kristen Indonesia Maluku – Grace Alenda Payer
b. Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana – Haleluyah Timbo Hutarabat
2. Malaysia: Sabah Theological Seminary – Sebastian Su Khet Chong
3. Myanmar:
a. Asho Chin Theological Seminary – Mie Aye Aye Thin
b. Chin Christian University – Hram Vung
c. Ko Tha Byu Theological Seminary – Naw Mie Mie Htoo
d. Lisu Theological Seminary- Jenny Thaung
e. Tahan Theological College – Charles Zo Thang Puia
4. Philippines:
a. Central Philippine University – Elvin Jude Cabalinan
b. Silliman University Divinity School – Arnel Faller
5. Taiwan: Tainan Theological College and Seminary – Li-Jen Liu
6. Thailand : McGilvary College of Divinity, Payap University – Rangsima Khamsan
The graduates affirmed that the course has definitely enhanced their knowledge and skills on Reference Services, Cataloging (organization of resource materials), Collection Management, IT Application, Library Management and Theological Librarianship.
The journey had its challenges. First, as foreign students from different parts of Asia, the language barrier is an obvious struggle, but in their pursuit to keep harmony, they have learned to overlook each other’s’ individual differences. Indeed, rubbing shoulders with students of diverse culture, language, and viewpoints taught them to be more flexible and responsive to the needs of others. Second, the adjustment to the new areas of study and new ways of learning like database management system and library automation encouraged them to be more open-minded and to explore areas beyond their comfort zone.
Upon returning to their respective school libraries, they expressed their eagerness to use what they have learned hoping to see positive changes like a) re-organizing their library for better utility for the clientele; b) assisting in acquiring new and relevant resource materials; and c) applying the skills in technical services for a more efficient library management.
The theological librarians have realized that their task is not merely the management of books. Rather, it is a call to serve the academic community in its pursuit to produce scholarly work. They understand that they are facilitators of the learning process assisting the learners, researchers, writers and lecturers in the tools they need in the quest to advance quality theological education. As one student said, “Librarianship is another field of mission work.”
