University of Luzon Librarians Advance Skills in Research and Open Access Innovation

Dr. Lorena U. Ontangco, the esteemed Chief Librarian of the University of Luzon, and her Assistant, Ms. Sarah Jean F. Purilan, are currently participating in a highly focused two-day seminar-workshop aimed at enhancing the critical role of library professionals in the digital academic landscape. The event, titled “Empowering Librarians as Research Innovators: Qualitative Inquiry and Open Access OER Platforms,” is taking place at Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) in Batac, Ilocos Norte, from October 2 to 3, 2025, marking its commencement today. This specialized professional development opportunity underscores the University of Luzon’s commitment to maintaining leadership and expertise within its information management division.

The core objective of the seminar is to reposition library professionals from mere custodians of knowledge to active research innovators. Key sessions are dedicated to refining skills in qualitative inquiry, a methodology critical for in-depth understanding and meaningful contribution to academic scholarship. By equipping Dr. Ontangco and Ms. Purilan with advanced research capabilities, the University ensures that its library staff can serve as more effective partners and collaborators with faculty and students across all disciplines. This enhanced role is pivotal in driving institutional innovation and ensuring that the library remains at the forefront of the intellectual life of the University community.

A major thematic focus of the workshop is the promotion of Open Access (OA) and the utilization of Open Educational Resources (OER) platforms. This initiative is vital in the current educational climate, advocating for the equitable access to knowledge by minimizing financial barriers and maximizing resource availability. The seminar highlights the librarian’s crucial role as an advocate for these platforms, ensuring that high-quality, relevant educational materials are freely accessible to all Luzonians, thereby enriching the learning experience and fostering a culture of sustainable knowledge-sharing essential for a modern, inclusive university.

The sustained investment in professional development, as evidenced by the participation in this workshop, reflects the University of Luzon’s unwavering dedication to institutional excellence. By championing initiatives that support both advanced research skills and open resource utilization, the University is systematically strengthening the foundation of its academic services. This continuous enhancement ensures that the library system can effectively adapt to the evolving demands of research in the digital age and fulfill its mandate to support quality education for every member of the University of Luzon community.

These activities, rooted in advancing knowledge accessibility and professional competence, directly align with key international development frameworks, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By enhancing staff expertise in qualitative research and resource management, the University significantly contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education, ensuring inclusive and equitable learning opportunities for Luzonians. Furthermore, the robust advocacy for Open Access and Open Educational Resources directly supports SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by facilitating global knowledge sharing and building effective partnerships to promote sustainable development.