Mandaue City Library Adopts Energy-Saving Strategies and Staff Schedule Revisions
In a proactive move to enhance sustainability, the Mandaue City Library has initiated a series of energy-saving measures while planning adjustments to staff work schedules. These efforts aim to reduce electricity consumption without compromising the library's weekend services for the public, as confirmed by city officials.
Energy Conservation Initiatives Implemented
City Librarian Angelina Cagatulia detailed the library's new energy-saving protocols, which include setting air conditioning units to 24 degrees Celsius, turning off AC in unoccupied sections, limiting lighting usage, and encouraging staff to use handheld fans. "The first step was adjusting the air conditioning to 24 degrees Celsius. In areas without clients, we switch off the units entirely. We've also reduced lighting and promoted the use of handheld fans among our team to conserve electricity," Cagatulia explained.
She further noted that the library optimizes energy use by opening only necessary sections when clients, such as students or researchers, arrive. "When patrons visit, we activate facilities selectively, preferring they congregate in one room to save energy. For smaller groups, we direct them to the e-library initially, opening additional rooms only as user numbers increase," she added.
Changes in Library Usage and Staff Scheduling
Cagatulia observed a decline in e-library users due to the absence of classes, though researchers and residents continue to utilize the facility for staying updated on current events. Concurrently, she is seeking approval from Mandaue City Administrator Gonzalo Malig-on to adjust staff work schedules, ensuring that 24/7 weekend services remain intact. "I will request permission to modify the workday and workweek for staff, considering our round-the-clock weekend operations," she stated.
Currently, the library operates 24 hours on weekends and until 11 p.m. on weekdays, a schedule designed to accommodate workers' research needs. "We recognized that workers have more free time on weekends, so we want to maintain access to our resources, especially electronic ones," Cagatulia said. However, she indicated that operating hours might be reviewed based on official approvals.
Official Clarifications and Future Plans
Malig-on clarified that the adjustments focus solely on staff schedules, not the removal of weekend services. "Mayor Ouano emphasized that weekend services should not be eliminated, only adjusted. Saturday and Sunday operations will continue, though hours may be altered," he affirmed. He attributed the need for schedule revisions to decreased demand on weekends, particularly Sundays, following the end of classes.
A final proposal outlining the new schedule arrangement is expected from the city librarian by Monday, April 20, 2026. "Library hours will remain; we will just rotate personnel and tweak the schedule. She will finalize the proposal and report back by Monday," Malig-on concluded, underscoring the city's commitment to balancing energy efficiency with public service accessibility.
