Located at La Trobe University in Bundoora, the LTU Borchardt Library is home to a treasure trove of knowledge and resources, including the Philippine Collection. This diverse collection of research literature has been carefully curated over the years, offering a comprehensive look into the history, society, flora, fauna, and urban environments of the Philippines.
To showcase this invaluable resource and to draw the community’s attention to its existence, the Philippines-Australia Forum (PAF) at La Trobe University is presenting a limited-time exhibition, displaying selected works from the Philippine Collection.
A Glimpse into the Treasures
Running from 26 July 2023, the exhibition presents a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich and multifaceted culture of the Philippines. The selected works from the collection will be on display in Room 1.62 on Level 1 of the Borchardt Library, providing a glimpse into the depth of knowledge available.
While the exhibition may be temporary, the Philippine Collection itself will always remain accessible to students, researchers, and the general public at the library.
Roots of the Philippine Collection
The history of the Philippine Collection is intrinsically linked to the vision of Dietrich Borchardt, the Founding Librarian of La Trobe University. In the late 1960s, under his direction, the library initiated its efforts to acquire books and research materials related to the Philippines. Over the years, this endeavor continued, resulting in the development of a vast and up-to-date assortment of resources dedicated to the country.
The collection boasts an extensive range of materials, from historical documents shedding light on the Philippines’ past to contemporary works exploring the society and cultural dynamics of the nation. Moreover, the collection also includes scientific literature on the country’s unique flora, fauna, and urban environments, offering valuable insights into the nation’s ecological diversity and urbanization.
One remarkable aspect of the Philippine Collection is its inclusion of works in Spanish from the Spanish colonial period. This addition provides an opportunity for researchers and history enthusiasts to understand the influence of Spain on the Philippines during its colonial era.
Promoting Awareness and Engagement
The exhibition, organized by the Philippines-Australia Forum (PAF) under the auspices of La Trobe Asia, is designed to foster an awareness of the collection’s existence among the university’s community and beyond. By presenting a selection of works from the vast collection, the PAF aims to pique the curiosity of students, faculty, and visitors alike, urging them to explore and engage with the wealth of knowledge that the library has to offer.
Cultural Affinities between Australia and the Philippines
Furthermore, the exhibition serves as a gateway for the community to learn more about the Philippines, a nation with which Australia shares strong cultural affinities. The Philippines is home to a multicultural democracy and has a large English-speaking population, contributing to its status as the fifth-largest migrant community in Australia. Understanding the historical and contemporary ties between the two countries is crucial for fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.
As the exhibition opens its doors to the public, visitors are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the richness of Philippine culture and heritage. Whether one’s interests lie in history, society, nature, or urban development, the Philippine Collection at LTU Borchardt Library has something to offer to everyone.
Preserving the Connection
Beyond the exhibition, the collection stands as a testament to the enduring connection between Australia and the Philippines, and it will continue to enrich the learning experiences of the La Trobe University community for generations to come.
PHOTOS Courtesy of Rei Fortes
