SM Cares Delivers 70,000+ Books to Nationwide Library Network

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, SM Cares—the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls—successfully concluded its Book Nook Book Donation Drive with an inspiring display of bayanihan. The nationwide initiative gathered more than 70,000 pre-loved books across 88 SM malls, uniting thousands of Filipinos in a shared commitment to literacy, learning, and community empowerment.

From a Single Spark to a Nationwide Movement

“When SM marked its 40th anniversary, the focus was not on celebration alone, but on purpose,” shared Cesar Gilbert Q. Adriano, Director of the National Library of the Philippines. “That purpose was to transform the spirit of sharing into a meaningful movement—the Book Nook Book Donation Drive. From that spark, the journey took root, grounded in the belief that stories are gifts meant to be passed on.”

Running from July 7 to October 15, 2025, the drive encouraged mallgoers from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to donate a wide range of books, including children’s stories, educational materials, novels, and reference titles. These contributions were channeled toward public libraries and community reading spaces nationwide, helping bring knowledge closer to more Filipinos.

The impact has been far-reaching. The initiative enriched 88 libraries and reading centers—74 in Luzon, seven in the Visayas, and seven in Mindanao—benefiting an estimated 219,936 students, educators, and families. Through this collective effort, libraries are being transformed into vibrant hubs where learning thrives and stories come alive.

A Milestone for Literacy and Community Partnerships

The culmination of the donation drive was marked by a ceremonial turnover held on November 27, 2025, at the National Library of the Philippines. During the event, SM Cares formally handed over the donated books to its 88 partner library communities, reinforcing the Book Nook program’s mission to make reading accessible through community-based spaces located in SM malls nationwide.

“Through Book Nook, we hope to nurture curiosity and creativity in every Filipino,” said Shereen T. Sy, pioneer of the Book Nook program under SM Cares. “This initiative shows how collective action can create lasting impact—one book, one reader, and one community at a time.”

Honoring the Champions of Literacy

The turnover ceremony also recognized outstanding public librarians whose dedication has strengthened literacy in their communities. The Heart of the Library Award for Most Outstanding Librarian was presented to Michael “Aiko” Nagas of the City Library of San Fernando, La Union, in recognition of her commitment to making books and knowledge accessible to all.

Meanwhile, the Literacy Partner Award was conferred on exceptional librarians nationwide, including Rosena Roman of the City of Imus Public Library, Easter Wahayna-Pablo of the Baguio City Public Library, Mylene Villanueva of the Manila City Library, and Michael Pinto of the Cagayan Provincial Learning and Resource Center. These honorees were celebrated for their tireless efforts in promoting reading, cultivating lifelong learning, and inspiring communities through knowledge.

This milestone is more than a celebration—it is a promise. SM Cares remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering future generations through literacy and education. Through initiatives like Book Nook, SM continues to nurture curiosity, creativity, and meaningful connection among Filipinos.

Learn more at https://linktr.ee/smbooknook or follow @OfficialSMCares and @SMBookNook.

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving with Every You

As SM Supermalls marks four decades of growing with Filipinos, it continues to redefine the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and inclusive initiatives. With 89 malls in the Philippines and eight in China, SM remains a trusted space where communities, lifestyles, and generations come together—shaping the future of retail and urban life with purpose and impact.