18/11/2025
A post on the Facebook group The Librarianologist warmed the hearts of Pinoys, featuring the Overio Family Little Popup Community Library — a humble sanctuary in Tubungan, Iloilo, that provides children with a space to read and learn 24/7.
"When I was told that the children in this community wouldn't bother to read and that setting up a library wouldn't work, I realized something important: that it's not that they don't want to read; they simply need access to books and a little encouragement," read Dr. YusufBel Overio's post.
To foster a genuine love of reading in children, she launched a simple initiative: offering a small reward for every 'big' book they read and summarized.
"Libraries, whether big or small, truly have the power to make a meaningful difference in a community," Overio added.
Many children, especially in rural areas, still lack access to public spaces such as libraries. The Overio Family Little Popup Community Library helps bridge the gap and shows the urgent need for more community-led learning spaces across the country.
"Thank you for doing this. As a book lover, I champion those who instill a love of reading [in] others, especially the underprivileged," one Facebook user commented.
If you're interested in donating books for the Overio Family Little Popup Community Library, here's where you can drop them:
Thrive Art Gallery
The Shops at Atria Ayala Malls,
Mandurriao, Iloilo City, Philippines 5000
Open from Wednesday to Sunday, 1 PM to 6 PM (closed on Monday and Tuesday).
Photos from YusufBel Overio/Facebook