National Librarians’ Day to commemorate the 130th Birth Anniversary of Padmashree Dr. S. R. Ranganathan (1892-1972), known as the Father of Indian Librarianship, was observed by the North Eastern Hill University Central Library and the Department of Library & Information Science and the Shillong College today.
In NEHU the programme was held as part of the ongoing Golden Jubilee Celebrations and Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
Vice Chancellor Prof. P.S. Shukla and Dr. (Mrs) Icylda Majaw, former University Librarian of NEHU attended the programme as guests.
Shukla appreciated the role played by libraries as storehouses of knowledge and its dissemination which has had tremendous impact on the development of society. He also emphasized the role of time management and importance of innovative ideas in all spheres of human endeavour.
Majaw recollected fond memories of the initial years of the university library, the immense contributions made by former university librarians and the mentorship they provided.
A brief account on the life and contributions of Dr Raganathan was also presented on the occasion by Dr. Lalhmachhuana followed by a presentation on the growth and development of the NEHU Library System by Dr. F.R. Sumer, Librarian in-charge.
Prof. P. Hangsing, Department of Library & Information Science spoke on the unique perspectives and foresight of Dr. Ranganathan as the pioneer of the library profession in India. Dr. S. Ravi Kumar, Associate Professor gave a summary of the history, achievements and future plans of the Department of Library & Information Science.
In Shillong College the day was observed with a poster campaign on the theme, ‘My Library, My Temple of Knowledge,’ a two-day orientation programme connect with your library and formation of Readers’ Club for the students of the college.
Principal, Dr. E. Kharkongor stressed on the importance of accessing physical books from the library which she said ‘are more reliable sources of knowledge’.
Dr. S. Sarma, IQAC Coordinator briefed on the life of Dr Ranganathan.
Vice Principal, B. Syiem lauded the efforts at formation of the Readers’ Club. He said it is a novel step towards encouraging reading habits amongst youth and enabling extended services towards the underprivileged.
