In a groundbreaking effort to promote literacy among elementary students, Bataan First District Board Member Atty. Antonino “Tonyboy” Roman III has launched the “Cool Iskool Mobile Library.” This initiative aims to foster a culture of reading among young learners, initially targeting schools across the First District of Bataan.

The project was officially set in motion with the signing of a tripartite agreement between Roman’s office at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Bataan, the Department of Education (DepEd) Bataan Schools Division Office, and The Asia Foundation. The signing ceremony, held on Friday, was attended by key education stakeholders, including DepEd District Supervisors from Hermosa, Orani, Samal, and Abucay.

Board Member Roman’s decision to spearhead the Cool Iskool Mobile Library project stems from a pressing need in Bataan’s educational landscape. Currently, only two public libraries exist in the province, and 42 schools in the First District lack their own library facilities. Moreover, recent studies indicate that 85% of Grade 1 students in the district are considered “emerging readers,” requiring additional support to develop essential reading skills.

The mobile library initiative seeks to address these gaps by offering students access to a wide range of books and digital learning resources. A specially outfitted van equipped with physical books, an e-library provided by The Asia Foundation, and 57 computer tablets donated by the Aboitiz Foundation, is central to this initiative.

The mobile library will travel from school to school, providing children with both traditional and digital tools to enhance their learning experiences. The project also encourages active involvement from public school teachers, who will help implement the reading programs in partnership with DepEd.

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