House of Representatives Legislative Information Resources Management Department (LIRMD) Philippines

Overview

The Legislative Information Resources Management Department (LIRMD) of the House of Representatives of the Philippines is the body responsible for managing the legislative library, archives, museum, and related information services of the lower chamber of the Philippine Congress. It serves both the institutional needs of the House and provides legislative information services to the general public.

Organizational Structure and Background

The LIRMD is led by the Deputy Secretary General for Legislative Information Resources Management, who also serves as the House of Representatives historian. The department oversees two main bureaus: the Congressional Library Bureau and the Archives and Museum Management Bureau. Together, these units manage the House's legislative records, historical archives, museum collections, and library services including law books, journals, legislative databases, and electronic resources. The current incarnation of the department operates as a one-stop shop for online library, archival, and museum products and services.

Collections and Services

The LIRMD maintains the Congressional Library, which holds legal and legislative reference materials, periodicals, databases (including JSTOR access), and electronic resources. The Archives and Museum Management Bureau preserves historical records of the House, including bills, resolutions, committee documents, and other institutional materials. The department provides an Information Request Form for public inquiries and has developed digital access services to facilitate remote access to legislative information. The LIRMD has also engaged in staff training in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to modernize its information management capabilities.

Access and Usage

The LIRMD portal at congress.gov.ph/lirmd serves as the public-facing gateway to legislative information resources. Online access request forms are available for various databases. Physical visits to the library and archives can be arranged through the department. The department can be contacted by phone or email for research inquiries and information requests.