CH NEWS
Bengaluru
Libraries are universal centres of knowledge that transcend barriers of religion, caste, creed, gender and social background, said Dr Kuppanahalli M. Byrappa, Professor of Kannada and noted thinker.
He was speaking at a special lecture titled “Jaga Belaguv Jnanālaya” (Library that Enlightens the World) organised by the Library and Information Centre and the Library Resource Optimisation Committee of Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, to mark National Librarians’ Day.
Dr Byrappa said libraries provide unrestricted access to knowledge and give everyone an opportunity to engage with books and ideas. Comparing libraries with places of worship, he noted that access to some places of worship may be governed by faith or restrictions, while libraries remain open to all.
“Libraries are an ocean of knowledge; explore their resources with curiosity and perseverance.”
He said sincere engagement with books could transform individuals, broaden their perspectives and help them build meaningful futures. Philosophers, thinkers, scholars, social reformers, leaders and pioneers who brought significant changes to society had made books an integral part of their lives, he added.
Referring to Dr S.R. Ranganathan, widely regarded as the Father of Library Science in India, Dr Byrappa said the purpose of National Librarians’ Day would be truly fulfilled only when people actively use libraries for knowledge sharing and intellectual development.
The programme was inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Som Zacharia, Director of the Library and Information Centre. Dr Uma Maheshwari, Coordinator of the Library Resource Optimisation Committee, welcomed the gathering.
An interactive session was also held, during which students discussed reading habits, effective use of library resources and the role of books in academic and personal development.
Dr Krishna D. Lamani, Dr Rajesh Naik, Prof Sona, Chief Librarian Harish D.N., Assistant Librarian Prabhu C., Anil Kumar, Nethravathi, Manoj Kumar and Manjima were present.