On the occasion of 126th birth anniversary of the father of library science in India, SR Ranganathan, the librarians from Doon library and Research Centre (DlRC), Dev Bhoomi library Association and Central Government library Association celebrated the occasion here on Sunday. Researchers and librarians took part in the event and expressed their views on the life of SR Ranganathan and focused on the current condition of the libraries in the State as well as in the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Ranjan Sinha Thakur said, “It is very important to know the importance of the library science in the modern scenario. A library is not the only a collection of books but is a way to transform life and society. We as people representing the library science know that researches or motivation by us can change student’s life and future.”

He, further, said, “In the world which is changing rapidly with time, it is important that we market ourselves so that people can understand the importance. Also, it is time that we change the policy of keeping students quiet in the library. Rather than that we should encourage them and should give them space for good discussions.”

Former chief secretary NS Napalchyal also expressed his views on the occasion librarians seek proper positions

Despite various regulations and provisions, librarians working in Dehradun alleged that they are working in very poor conditions. From aspects including recruitment to proper paid, the system has been very slow and not addressed such important issues. This has left little motivation among professionals in this field.

Elaborating on this, the secretary of Dev Bhoomi library Association, DN Mishra said, “It is disheartening that the Government does not support us which has hindered our development. There are many Government run institutes across the state that do not have a proper librarian though it is mandatory to do so as per the act. We are not provided proper wages and are also not given increment. Even though our degree is equally valuable as that of a professor in a college, various institutions do not even consider it. We have asked for help from the present and previous Governments but nothing has been done so far.”