A Second Life to Stories
Every year in the United States, there are millions of books being purged from library shelves to make room for new ones. Libraries do try to find a home for them by holding a book sale and unsold books are recycled and turned into mulch. From my perspective as a gardener, recycling isn't such a bad thing.
I found this out while attending a Book Sale in Tampa, Florida in 2000. At one of these book sales, I asked the Chairman what they do to the unsold books. She offered for us to haul as many books as we can use after I told her that we just sponsored our first Children's Library in the Philippines. That was 2004. Since then, we have found 28 homes (libraries) in the Philippines for over 50,000+ unwanted books. Some books were brand new that no one borrowed, others were gently used, and some needed repairs.
TD Guipo Learning Center
The first library we established was the TD Guipo Learning Center, named after my parents Trinidad and Doroteo Guipo. They taught 40 and 35 years respectively. It is housed in the elementary school building of Notre Dame of Dadiangas University in General Santos City where Al taught from 1969-1971 as a Peace Corps Volunteer.
Friends of Hower-Bates Library Network
This passion project began in 2004 through a collaborative partnership with Notre Dame Dadiangas College where Al taught from 1969-1971. NDDC provided the space, and with the help of family and friends, we raised funds to fill the room with learning materials such as books and computers.
Alvin and Prima Children's Library
The third library is i Notre Dame of Marbel University and was established in 2019.
In Thoughts & Reflections, Prima shares personal insights on th things that have shaped her the most - from raising a family across cultures to finding purpose in everyday moments. Her writing offer quiet wisdom, lived experience, and the kind of grace that comes from a life grounded in service.
Whether you want to collaborate on community projects, book readings, or cultural events, Prima welcomes meaningful connections that continue her legacy of service and storytelling. Reach out to explore how you can work together to inspire and empower others!
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