39th Imphal Book Fair-2023 commences
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, December 15 2023:
The 39th Imphal Book Fair - 2023, which will be held for 7 days, commenced at the Central Library and Manipur State Archives complex, Keishampat under the joint aegis of State Central Library Imphal and Raja Rammohun Roy Foundation, ministry of culture, on Friday.
Speaking as chief guest of the inaugural function, Art and Culture commissioner M Joy pointed out that as library plays an important role in promoting reading habit among the people, particularly the students, creating an atmosphere for promoting reading habit among the general masses necessitates establishment of libraries at every nook and corner of the state.
Delivering the key-note address of the function, State Central Library chief librarian RK Urmila said that the Library was established in the year 1958 with Mayengbam Anto as the librarian.
While conceding that the State Central Library is facing staff shortage but has so far been managing with the existing staff, she informed the gathering that under the National Mission Library, plans are afoot to upgrade the State Library to a model facility by developing the infrastructure and technology input.
In addition, the government is planning to establish the main office on the second floor of the existing building.
The website of the state central library will also be launched soon, probably on Saturday, she said.
The book fair will have a series of events including releasing of books penned by local authors, on-the-spot painting competition, quiz competition and career counselling sessions.
There are altogether 51 bookstalls selling different books at 15 percent discount.
Presided over by Art and Culture director L Kishorejit, the inaugural function was also attended by Manipur University Librarian Prof Ch Ibohal as guest of honour.