AMERICAN CORNER DAVAO

HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

       The American Corner (AC) was established on May 13, 1992, when Ateneo de Davao University Library received the donation of library collections from the former United States Information Service (USIS) Davao. The Memorandum of Agreement was signed by the Public Affairs Officer, Mr. Morton S. Smith, representing the U.S. Embassy, and Fr. Antonio S. Samson, S.J., former President of the Ateneo de Davao University.

       In 2003, the AC was closed for renovation. On its reopening on February 4, 2004, a new MOA was signed by Mr. Ronald Post, Public Affairs Officer of the U.S. Embassy, and Fr. Edmundo M. Martinez, S.J., President of the Ateneo de Davao University from 1993-2004. The new MOA reflects the improved facilities provided by the university and the updated collection from the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy.

AMERICAN SPACES

American Spaces are open-access learning and gathering places worldwide that promote in-person and virtual interaction among local audiences and the United States. More than 600 American Spaces are located in universities, shopping malls, libraries, and other public places and on embassy compounds in more than 140 countries. 

In a welcoming American-themed environment, American Spaces delivers compelling programs and activities on various themes and topics — everything from free internet access to objective news publications to advanced technology to freedom of cultural expression programs. For example, visitors may find:

  • Educational advising for those who want to study in the U.S.
  • Workshops on a range of topics, from career skills to English language learning
  • Classes and clubs introducing new technologies, 21st-century digital skills, and academic resources
  • Films, discussions, and lectures on entrepreneurship, leadership, current events, international affairs, and much more

SERVICE HOURS

    Monday – Friday      8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

   (Closed during Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

CLIENTELE

The center is open to the general public and walk-ins:

  • Everyone is welcome!
  • Public and private institutions
  • Students and professionals
  • Businessmen and community leaders
  • Visiting researchers

CONTROL POLICIES

  • Users should present and wear their valid Identification Card upon entering the AC.
  • Upon exit, users must open and show the content of their bags, folders, and other receptacles to the AC staff.

RESOURCES AND FACILITIES

The AC collections include books, periodicals, CD-ROMs, DVDs, audiobooks, posters, board games and journal publications.

The AC is air-conditioned and has facilities for Internet access and for viewing movies via Kanopy.

DRESS CODE

AC users are expected to dress appropriately while on campus.

CONDUCT IN THE LIBRARY

  • AC users should respect the right of each individual to stay in a safe and comfortable environment.
  • AC users who engage in disruptive and inappropriate behavior will be asked to leave the AC.
  • Cellphones and electronic communication devices must be put on silent mode or deactivated before entering the AC.
  • All calls must be entertained outside the AC.
  • Smoking, eating, sleeping, and drinking are prohibited inside the AC.
  • Leaving personal belongings in the AC is not allowed. The AC assumes no responsibility for any items left unattended. 
  • Discussions and board games are only allowed during the activity period. Before so, silence must be observed.

 

SERVICES

Reference Queries

A full-time AC Coordinator provides reference assistance. The AC also accepts and responds to phone, email, and social media inquiries.

Book Loans

Borrowing privileges are granted to the ADDU faculty members, students, and staff. Board games, journals, and magazines are for library premise use only.

Educational Advising

The AC has an EducationUSA Advising Area  that provides materials on

 

  • Standard tests such as GMAT, GRE, and TOEFL, as well as registration bulletins.
  • Catalogs and brochures from U.S. colleges and universities 
  • Peterson’s Test Prep and Career Prep

Computer Use

Use of computers is on a  first-come and first-serve basis due to limited units. Electronic information resources are to be used in a manner consistent with the educational and informational purposes for which they are intended.