IRRI Library

Reading Assignment #7


Visiting IRRI library last August was a good experience. More than the fresh air and the close to nature experience, we have a chance to take a look at the library, IRRI's top of the line Millennium ILS with modules reliably support simple, everyday library transactions while at the same time meeting the demands of the most sophisticated cataloger, circulation manager, or web librarian (www.iii.com) and most importantly their exemplary practices and non-traditional ways of rendering services to its clienteles.

Enriched with information resources mostly in rice literature, IRRI library continually thrives to give first hand information to researchers here and abroad by utilizing Web 2.0 concepts. Faster communication is a key to good service. Incorporating Web 2.0 technologies like instant messaging, document delivery and networking, the library paved the way to reach a lot of clienteles world wide faster and economical. The availability of online catalog and rice databases with hyperlinks to full-text electronic databases (e-journals, open access resources) is very beneficial to a lot of their researchers. Equipped with good interface. One look at their library system, one can easily understand it and be usable by individuals even with minimal computer training. These made IRRI library away further from the rest.

Like other libraries, IRRI library thrives for its existence. High quality IRS does not come cheap. Its a challenge for them how to maintain a costly library system. One thing I've learned that despite all these constraints they never stop striving to make information available (even those expensive ones) and still they were able to render efficient service to their clienteles. True to their mission, they are not swayed by financial problems but instead they become even been more resourceful, innovative and creative. A great motivation for us who are just starting.

Foodie stuff: We will never forget the mouth watery Sinugno (its sweet gata you just want to have more) and the challenging suso; all those hungry catfishes (hito) waiting for anything to be devoured (especially the sili); and all those good memories we have in this trip.