New Delhi, April 21: Mizoram Governor General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd.) on Tuesday called for renewed efforts to revive and strengthen India’s library culture while addressing the 80th Foundation Day celebration of the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Delhi. The event was held at the Convention Hall of the historic Vice Regal Lodge on the university campus, with the Governor attending as the Chief Guest.
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| Mizoram Governor General (Dr.) V.K. Singh delivers his address as Chief Guest at the 80th Foundation Day celebration of the Department of Library and Information Science, Delhi University.(Image: DIPR Mizoram) |
The celebration marked eight decades of academic contribution by one of India’s leading institutions in the field of library and information science. Faculty members, students, researchers, alumni, and distinguished guests attended the programme, which highlighted the department’s achievements and its role in promoting education, research, and information management.
In his address, Governor Singh emphasized the enduring importance of libraries and books in the development of an informed, educated, and progressive society. He noted that libraries have historically served as centers of knowledge, learning, and intellectual growth, playing a vital role in shaping generations of students, scholars, and citizens.
At the same time, he expressed concern over what he described as the gradual decline in the importance and usage of public libraries in contemporary society. According to the Governor, rapid technological advancements and changing reading habits have altered the way people access information, resulting in reduced public engagement with traditional library systems.
Despite these changes, Singh stressed that libraries continue to hold immense value and should remain an integral part of educational and social development. “Now is the time to revive and improve them,” he said, urging educators, students, policymakers, and community leaders to work together to restore the prominence of libraries across the country.
Drawing comparisons with international practices, the Governor pointed out that many European countries continue to invest significantly in public library infrastructure and services. He observed that strong library networks in these nations contribute not only to educational advancement but also to community engagement, lifelong learning, and cultural preservation.
The Governor highlighted that India possesses a rich intellectual and academic heritage that should be preserved and strengthened through well-maintained libraries and knowledge institutions. Referring to the renowned Nalanda University, he described it as a symbol of India’s historical excellence in education and scholarship, noting that the country has a long tradition of valuing learning and the dissemination of knowledge.
While acknowledging that the role of libraries is evolving in the digital era, Singh said they remain essential for fostering critical thinking, research, and academic excellence. He emphasized that modern libraries must adapt to technological advancements by integrating digital resources while continuing to provide access to books and scholarly materials.
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The Governor also underscored the importance of library and information science professionals in managing knowledge resources and ensuring that information remains accessible and reliable in an age of information overload. He noted that the profession has become increasingly important as societies navigate the challenges and opportunities created by digital transformation.
Congratulating the Department of Library and Information Science on its 80th anniversary, Singh commended its contributions to teaching, research, and professional development over the decades. He expressed confidence that the department would continue to play a leading role in advancing library science education and promoting a culture of reading and knowledge-sharing in India.
The event concluded with tributes to the department’s legacy and discussions on the future of libraries in the digital age. Participants reaffirmed the importance of strengthening library systems and fostering a reading culture to support education, innovation, and national development.
