However, the case is different in our community in Bacood, Sta. Mesa, Manila. Children are spending the day not in the pool but rather inside the library.

In the library during summer vacation? That is quite unusual for me since most children hate going to the library even during school days. I had to investigate this matter, I told myself.

I went in and used my sleuthing skills to find out what’s driving them towards the Bacood Public Library, a Manila city government-run library that is open to everyone. Manila operates eight other libraries in the city.

I got the answer and it is no wonder they are having a great time in the library. Mark Andres, a Manila City Hall personnel, has devised a scheme to continuously draw children and as well as grown- ups to the library. Here are the secrets -- scale model World War II planes, tanks, submarines; modern warfare hardware such as M1A1 tanks, F/A 18’s, F117 stealth, patriot rocket launchers, among others. And more - an aircraft carrier complete with back up fleet of destroyers, frigates, nuclear subs, supply ships; medieval aged castle complete with catapults, siege towers, battering ram, cannons, legionaire horsemen, dragons and other figures that will stir the minds of the viewer.

In short, toys that elevate the imagination of children!

All of these toys are personally owned by Mark Andres who believes that it takes more than books to stir the imagination of children, thus he volunteered to exhibit his collection.

The exhibit is also being explained in detail by Mark. In an instant, I learned about World War II history, medieval history, the aftermaths of war, the Roman conquest without spending a dime.

The Bacood Library also shows video films such as National Geographic, Discovery Channel, documentries, selected cartoons with materials and DVD player also provided by Mark. The 29" television was donated by Adonis Alfonso, another Manila City Hall employee.

Among the games available to children, on the other hand, are chess, checkers, domino, jugsaw puzzles, Scrabble, Game of the Generals, Sea Battle etc. Boardgames are highly believed to enhance the mind better than video games.

The general perception of government people is that they are corrupt, untrustworthy and lazy. But the responsibility and unselfish acts demonstrated by the above personnel of the Manila City Hall prove otherwise. They went out of their way and spent their own funds to realize a worthy project and for us, this deserves my highest respect. May they thrive and flourish. Salute! to you guys.