The Glory That Was ....OUR NATIONAL LIBRARY

Outside the Burlingame Public Library in California

     The only library my kids have been to are those in their schools and in places we have visited outside home. Why? Take a look....

     Two years ago I had to do some research for my Research Methodology class in design school. Yes, back when I was attempting to finish it. My group mates and I went to the National Library along T.M. Kalaw in old Manila. 

     What I saw through all the reality that is the library now are heartsful of good intentions. No more. I know our country is third world but surely amidst all the corruption in our government; past, present (don't kid yourself) and future some funding can be set aside. I share these pics with a heavy heart but some hope that you will see its good bones. If, when and whichever government decides to fix this our poor National Library, I believe they will end up building a new one. This is my tribute to the glory that was once our National Library.

Before entering you need to register for and ID which we found cool though it is just a cardboard ID.

Books!

Computers to help you search for books ...but the keys were sticky....=-(((( EW!

The way they exhibit is so 70's. I remembered grade school days.

Handsome antique desks.

High ceiling. No AC but the building was cool and comfortable. So sayang talaga...

Miss Tapia, are you there?

Love these grilles!!!

Old-fashioned book cases. I am so lining up when they decide to sell these things....

Especially these benches....

     But these are just the non-living fixtures there. What will really take you is the dedication of the library staff. They tried their best to help us and were doing their jobs really well though can you imagine how much their salaries are?

     Speaking of low salaries...I need to talk to my boss..Kidding!..Sorry, I would talk to their boss if I could....seriously...


The National Library was the work of
Hexagon Associated Architects

    

The Forever After: A House tour

Every time an old home 

and a beautiful one at that is torn down, 

my heart sinks.....

     I can name three dearest best friends from grade school and all are either in the States or in Canada. Thank, God for facebook and Twitter I have managed to stay in touch with all of them. This post is about best friend #1, Leah.....well kinda....

     Leah, her husband and their three kids were in Manila recently and luckily a little meet up was arranged in her brother Alex's house where they were staying. (Balibayans have crazy schedules and itineraries.) Outside my own family, Leah's family were the only 'other'  people I knew as a kid as during her birthdays her parents would take us out and I was even invited to her sister's 18th birthday party.  I appreciated them then as very warm, funny and accommodating people. I always felt right at home when I was with them. 

     It was the same feeling that welcomed me when I entered Alex's renovated Manila home. Alex is Leah's older brother.

     A mid-century modern gem in the heart of the city. I must admit I was envious. Homes like this remind me of my happy childhood...... The house is an interesting mix of mostly old pieces, new ones, good taste and a personal and family history so full of life and love.

   

     I shall leave you alone with some pictures that Alex so kindly allowed me to snap. Alex said he is still working on the kitchen, dining room and some other surprise areas....Honestly I can't wait and I hope to be invited back... I hope to write more lengthily about it next time. Sleepover? Kidding....

  

   The stairs alone is pure joy....

      His home office is what welcomes you upstairs.....

     Bedroom. Look at the lovely Claude Tayag water colors of Santos....

     I absolutely love Alex's collection of miniature iconic chairs.....

   A bright yellow (life-size na) Panton chair in the second floor hallway....

     He also collects bird cages...So lovely!

      I hope there will be more homeowners like Alex who choose to re-create, to pay tribute and to invite into today a beautiful world of not so long ago.