About Kaban ng Hiyas Congressional Library

Welcome to the Kaban ng Hiyas Congressional Library (KHCL) - the first Congressional District Library in the Philippines. Formally opened to the public on June 10, 1997, we serve the Mandaluyong City community with dedication to academic excellence and accessible information resources.

Vision

The Kaban ng Hiyas Congressional Library (KHCL) envisions to become a library of international standing and the most modern and innovative library in the Philippines.

Mission

As the first Congressional Library in the country, the Kaban ng Hiyas Congressional Library (KHCL) is committed to provide adequate and relevant information necessary for research and studies; while providing a comfortable and friendly library through efficient and effective administration with responsible and value-driven personnel providing educational services anchored on our deep commitment to the well-being of Mandaluyong City constituents and students, and to the academic progress of the city.

Functions

To provide information resources which students and researchers need in research and projects.
To ensure effectiveness and efficiency in the delivery of information, retrieval, proper organization and maintenance of books and collections.
To maintain basic reference resources.

Our History

The Beginning

Hailed as the first Congressional District Library in the country, the Kaban ng Hiyas Congressional Library (KHCL) was formally opened to the public on June 10, 1997. It was also on that day that a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) about the library was signed by Representative Neptali M. Gonzales II, Mayor Benjamin S. Abalos, DILG Regional Director Rodolfo S. Ferraren, and National Library Director Adoracion Bayani Mendoza.

The said MOA provides, among other things, that the ownership and administration of the KHCL belongs to the city government, while the offices of the City Mayor and the Congressional District of Mandaluyong would provide the continuing funding. The National Library of the Philippines supplies the necessary books, other reading materials and technical expertise, including the designation of the Head and Assistant Head Librarian.

The Kaban ng Hiyas Building

Kaban ng Hiyas Congressional Library Building

The library is named after the Kaban ng Hiyas building which houses it. The building, situated at the Mandaluyong City Hall grounds, was inaugurated on June 10, 1992.

Building Layout

First Floor: Congressman's Office and Museum (showcasing memorabilia of the late Sen. Neptali A. Gonzales)
Second Floor: Kaban ng Hiyas Congressional Library (KHCL) and Mandaluyong City Hall's Cultural Department
Third Floor: Auditorium

Internet Section Development

January 17, 2005

Inauguration of the Internet Section by then-Mayor Neptali M. Gonzales II

Initially: 6 IBM computers → Later upgraded to: 8 computers

February 18, 2009

Major upgrade to Hewlett-Packard models with 20-inch LCD monitors

Current

Internet Section housed in dedicated room across from the Filipiniana Section

Frequently Asked Questions

Academic Resource & Knowledge System (ARK)

AI-Powered Library Platform

The primary objective of this project is to develop an AI-powered, web-based platform that enhances access to academic resources. By utilizing Natural Language Processing (NLP) and semantic search techniques, the platform will improve the way users interact with academic content, offering smarter search capabilities and automated categorization.

Platform Features

Smart Search

Natural Language Processing (NLP) and semantic search techniques

Automated Categorization

Intelligent organization of academic content

Personalized Recommendations

Based on user interests and study patterns

Resource Discovery

Textbooks, research papers, and educational materials

External Integration

Academic databases, open-access journals, and digital archives

Quality Feedback System

Guides users toward high-quality and relevant content