F. Sionil Jose formally turns over his prized collection to the DLSU Libraries
Acknowledgement goes to Dr. Vince Gomez
who jumpstarted a series of meetings with the Jose family by his casual mention
of the Libraries as one of the possible repository of the collection, thus leading
to this great partnership.
Now
housed at the 12/F of the Learning Commons, the collection is composed of his
complete works including manuscripts, published works, and articles. His novels
and short stories have been translated in 28 different languages. The novels in
the Rosales saga alone have been translated into more than 22 languages.
Other
sections of the collection include publications by Solidaridad Publishing House
(a bookshop
on Padre Faura Street, Ermita, which they opened in 1965), signed copies of books written by friends, and his selection
of 100 recommended books.
He
has encouraged young artists to flourish and has exhibited their works at
Solidaridad Galleries (1967-1981). Some of these renowned artists have
contributed art work for this collection.
F. Sionil Jose has served as writer-in-residence and faculty
member of De La Salle University. He also is the founder of the Philippine
chapter of the international organization PEN (Poets, Playwrights, Essayists,
Novelists) and runs the Solidaridad Bookshop.
As
an outcome of his notable achievement in the literary field, he has been the
recipient of the following exemplary awards -- including the Ramon Magsaysay
Award for Journalism, Literature and Creative Arts (1980), Philippine National
Artist (2001), and the Pablo Neruda Centennial Award (2004).