Joenabie E Arevalo: A trailblazer in medical librarianship and leadership

From the moment the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health (ASMPH) Library first opened its doors in 2007, Joenabie "Joena" E Arevalo has been at its heart. Over the years, she has played a vital role in shaping the library into a dynamic space for learning, research, and collaboration. Her journey has been deeply enriched by the support of ASMPH administrators and faculty, who helped her grow in library management, and by the students whose engagement made the library a vibrant hub of activity.

Now, Joena embarks on an exciting new chapter in her career. She has been promoted to Deputy University Librarian for Reader Services at Ateneo de Manila University, and by January 2026, she will take on the esteemed role of University Librarian. This milestone reflects her dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to advancing medical information services.

Beyond her work at ASMPH, Joena actively contributes to the field of library science. As a faculty member at the University of the Philippines School of Library and Information Studies, she shares her knowledge by teaching medical and health librarianship electives. Her academic background includes both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Library and Information Science from the same institution, where she graduated cum laude in 2004 and completed her master's in 2011. Currently, she is pursuing a PhD in Education at The Gokongwei Brothers School of Education and Learning Design (GBSEALD) at the Ateneo.

Her leadership journey has also extended beyond the Philippines. Joena was part of the inaugural cohort of an international library leadership program, which connected emerging library leaders across Southeast Asia. This experience not only broadened her professional network but also fostered valuable collaborations. A key takeaway from the program was her mentorship under Caroline Pang, University Librarian of Nanyang Technological University, whose guidance played a significant role in shaping Joena’s leadership approach.

Joena’s expertise in modern library management is further enhanced by her proficiency in strategic planning and digital transformation. She applies innovative frameworks, such as the Business Model Canvas, to ensure efficient project execution and forward-thinking library services. The insights she gained from leadership training continue to inform her work, allowing her to navigate challenges with fresh perspectives and effective strategies.

As Joena steps into this new role, the ASMPH community celebrates her achievements and contributions. Her dedication to making information accessible and empowering future library professionals serves as an inspiration to many. We wish her all the best as she continues to make an impact in the ever-evolving world of library and information science.