Prov’l library in Agusan Sur lends books to patients of drug abuse treatment center
AGUSAN DEL SUR -- In celebration of National Reading Month this November, the provincial government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS), through the Provincial Public Information Office (PPIO) - Library Division, forged partnership with the Department of Health - Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center – Agusan del Sur (DOH-DATRC-ADS) in Agusan del Sur to provide patients with access to books.
On November 8, personnel from the Provincial Public Information Office (PPIO) delivered a collection of books to the DOH-DATRC-ADS, located in Barangay Alegria, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.
The books, lent by the Provincial Library, are expected to benefit an estimated 200 patients presently admitted in the facility.
Recognizing the profound impact of reading on mental well-being especially during rehabilitation, Dr. Melhammid Tomawis, chief of hospital, emphasized its importance, saying that reading offers a mental escape, challenging negative thoughts and promoting a sense of calm, which is crucial for individuals navigating the recovery process.
Librarian Nova Jean Dano conducted an orientation session to the patients, explaining the simple process of accessing the books through a borrower's card system.
She encouraged them to embrace the opportunity for learning and personal growth that reading can provide.
Dano also highlighted the potential benefits of reading, not only during their stay at the facility but also during the transition period back to their lives and striving for lifetime sobriety.
Health Program Officer John Mark Dela Cruz of the Psychology Section expressed gratitude to PPIO, under the leadership of Provincial Information Officer PJ Dela PeΓ±a, for promptly facilitating their request in conjunction with National Reading Month.
He emphasized that the initiative is a valuable addition to their rehabilitation program.
Providing books to patients undergoing substance rehabilitation demonstrated the provincial government's commitment to promoting literacy and supporting individuals in recovery. (PPIO-Agusan del Sur/PIA-Agusan del Sur)
