Mandaue City Library Rolls Out Energy-Saving Program with Staff Schedule Revisions
In a proactive move to reduce energy consumption, the Mandaue City Library has initiated a series of energy-saving measures while ensuring that public services remain available every weekend. According to City Librarian Angelina Cagatulia, the library has begun implementing strategies such as setting air conditioning units to 24°C, turning off AC in unoccupied sections, limiting lighting usage, and encouraging staff to use handheld fans.
Detailed Energy Conservation Efforts
Cagatulia explained the specific steps taken: "Our first action was adjusting the air conditioning to 24 degrees Celsius. In areas without clients, we switch off the AC. We have also restricted lighting use, and some of our staff are utilizing handheld fans to help save electricity." She emphasized that when clients, such as students or researchers, arrive, the library opens only the necessary sections to minimize power consumption.
"If there are clients, we open the facility, but we prefer they stay in one room or section rather than spreading out, so we can conserve energy. For small groups, we direct them first to the e-library, and only open other rooms when user numbers increase," Cagatulia added. She noted a decrease in e-library users due to the absence of classes, but researchers and residents continue to use the facility for research and staying updated on events.
Staff Schedule Adjustments and Weekend Service Assurance
Alongside these energy-saving efforts, Cagatulia stated she will seek approval from City Administrator Atty. Gonzalo Malig-on for proposed adjustments to staff schedules, while guaranteeing that library services will persist on weekends. Currently, the library operates 24 hours on weekends and until 11 p.m. on weekdays, a schedule designed to provide workers with more opportunities to access library resources, especially the e-library.
However, Cagatulia mentioned that operating hours could be reviewed based on city officials' approvals. Malig-on confirmed that the library will only adjust staff schedules and not eliminate weekend operations. "According to Mayor Thadeo Jovito 'Jonkie' Ouano, service should not be removed on weekends, just adjusted. Saturday and Sunday services will remain, but hours may be revised," Malig-on said.
He explained that with classes concluded, the demand for library services on weekends, particularly Sundays, is not as high as before, necessitating staffing schedule revisions. The city librarian is expected to submit a final recommendation on Monday, April 20, 2026, regarding the new schedule adjustments.
Public Reassurance and Future Outlook
Despite upcoming changes, city officials have assured the public that the library will continue to open every weekend, with adjusted staffing to balance service provision and energy conservation. This initiative reflects a commitment to sustainability while maintaining essential community access to educational resources.
