We normally think of Bonifacio Global City (BGC) as a bustling business and commercial district where many work, shop, and have fun. But BGC is also making a mark as a place for learning and knowledge with the presence of its landmark science-themed museum The Mind Museum not to mention the Korean Cultural Center where you can learn Korean culture in its many aspects from the traditional to the modern. (AKA the Korean wave)
Other than those 2 prominent landmarks, there is also another place to learn in this busy district, serving as an oasis of knowledge in the midst of tall skyscrapers with its rich collection of books, photographs, postcards, and other materials related to the Philippines. Today, we shall take a look inside this one of a kind and under-the-radar type of library.
This is the Mario Feir Filipiniana Library, a private library located in one of the residential towers in BGC. As such, it is a quiet place which is conducive for reading and research while being immersed in so much reading material. I kid you not when I said “so much” as it rivals that of the Filipiniana collections of the National Library and other libraries with its immense collection that includes rare works about the Philippines that have been published outside the country and dating way back in the 19th century. There are also unpublished materials being kept here which one can access to.
The library owners are avid bibliophiles who started out collecting material about the Philippines from various sources both here and outside the country. Eventually, the collection has gotten quite huge that they decided to offer it as a place to read on and research about the various aspects of the country. Its reputation has quietly grown over time that people like Manolo Quezon, Ambeth Ocampo, and even Imelda Marcos dropped by this place.
The unit where the library is located is itself a place to behold as one can see rare maps, documents, and artworks related to the Philippines. Not to mention the presence of exquisite furnishings like vases and sculptures, some of which came from overseas.
The Mario Feir Filipiniana Library is open 7 days a week but you must make a reservation first. If you are looking for certain topics or subjects to research on, do not hesitate to let them know during reservation so when you come in, they have already prepared the material for you. The folks there are glad to help you as much as you can with what you’re looking for.
If this post has enticed you to plan a visit to this bibliophile haven, check out and contact the library through their Facebook page Mario Feir Filipiniana Library and learn more about the Philippines through a wider perspective thanks to the wealth of materials they offer.
Happy reading and here’s to the development of Philippine literacy and knowledge.
3 Comments
Jeanne
Brilliant resource! Thank you very much for this!
aurea
Is it open for public? Is there any entrance fee? I’m planning to visit only and take some pictures.
urbanroamer
Yes it is. No entrance fee to be paid. Just contact the library beforehand for reservation.