Where communities create their own library

Shereen Sy continues Book Nook's mission at SM North EDSA

- JESSICA PAG-IWAYAN

The latest study reveals that 18.9 million Filipinos aged 10 to 64 are classified as functionally illiterate, lacking basic comprehension skills. This alarming statistic calls for urgent action across all sectors.

Research—including an article from Eastern Washington University—shows that cultivating the habit of reading plays a crucial role in improving comprehension.

This makes it imperative to make books and public libraries accessible to all Filipinos. One initiative addressing this need is the SM Group’s Book Nook—an open library inside SM malls where visitors can freely read and donate books.

First launched at SM Aura in 2020, Book Nook celebrated the opening of its third branch at SM North EDSA on Aug. 14, 2025. In an interview with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, Shereen Sy, the driving force behind the project, expressed her excitement about the new location, noting its proximity to schools in the area.