MALA laments over status of libraries in State
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, April 26 2013 :
Highlighting the present scenario of libraries in Manipur, Secretary of Manipur Library Association (MALA) Dr Ch Ibohal Singh has observed that any effort for education reforms would remain a mere dream if attention is not given to libraries which are heart of quality education.
Speaking to media persons at Manipur Press Club here today, Dr Ibohal pointed out that though Manipur is the sixth state in the country which has its own Library Act, the existing Manipur Libraries Act-1988 is still non-operational.
Due to lack of proper attention from the side of concerned authorities or department, public libraries in Manipur have remained at a miserable position.
Library has three types viz public, academic and special.
However, libraries that ought to be set up in educational institutes have not been established and none of the libraries in the State have enough staffs and there is no programme like training, sensitization, refresher programme to enhance the skills, knowledge of people in the profession, Dr Ibohal lamented.
Observing that apart from being the source of knowledge, library is also the main factor for bringing educational reforms as well as for promotion of peace; harmony; cultural integrity and social development, Dr Ibohal informed that MALA has pressed the government for improving the status of libraries in Manipur through submission of a 5(five)-point memorandum to Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh, who is also in-charge of libraries in the State.
Separate directorate for library; recruitment of librarians and subordinate staffs for State Central and district libraries; fund support of Rs 10,000/month each to all the 144 beneficiary libraries under Raja Rammohan Roy Library Foundation and establishment of divisional/circle/ branch libraries in 12 different places are the main demands enlisted in the memorandum, Dr Ibohal disclosed.
Apart from this, MALA has also submitted another memorandum to Education Minister M Okendro for appointment of the required librarians, assistant librarians, bookmen in all the schools, higher secondary schools and colleges in Manipur on regular basis, he added.
Dr Ibohal also drew the attention of the State Government for establishing libraries in all its departments.