Public libraries are essential hubs of knowledge, serving diverse communities across age groups and backgrounds
OdishaPlus Bureau
Odisha Society of the Americas (OSA), an organization of Non-Resident Odias (NRO) in the United States, is going to host the ‘2024 Odisha Public Library Conference’, on 15 December at Bhanja Kala Mandap in Bhubaneswar. The conference will be a full-day thought churning to spread awareness on the role of modern public libraries in Odisha.
Public libraries are essential hubs of knowledge, serving diverse communities across age groups and backgrounds. In an era dominated by digital technology, it is imperative for libraries to adapt and evolve. The conference under OSA Odisha Public Library Initiative (OPLI) aims to underscore the need and benefits of having modern public libraries at every Gram Panchayat in the state.
During a press conference held on Friday, Nishikanta Sahoo, Chair and Ajay Mohanty, Co-Chair of OPLI informed on the details of the conference which will be attended by policymakers, and notable participants from diverse fields, including heads of public libraries, media figures, authors, educators, social workers, scholars and students. The event will engage the attendees in comprehensive discussion on how modern libraries can empower communities under the state government.
The transformation of libraries has been significant in recent years globally. By integrating books with computer access and internet connectivity, modern libraries have become more user-friendly. They serve not only as centers for academic learning but also as venues for entertainment and skill development. Furthermore, they help achieve digital and financial literacy among youth, positioning rural libraries as vital community resource centers.
Modern libraries can also play a crucial role in connecting citizens with government initiatives expediting development. The OSA advocates establishing ‘Well Integrated Modern Public Library System’ at the rural level to help promote reading culture, build a knowledge society, enable internet economy and empower people towards a better and prosperous Odisha.
Libraries are instrumental in societal advancement and can significantly impact poverty alleviation, one of the key Sustainable Development Goals outlined by the United Nations. Research also indicates that for every dollar invested in public libraries, there is a return of four to nine dollars in value.
Several states across India have successfully implemented modern public libraries at the Gram Panchayat level. Thus, the conference shall explore how Odisha can adopt these successful models for a sustainable public library management in the region.
“OSA invites individuals from various sectors of the community to actively participate in this conference,” said the OSA officials at the press meet. OSA Odisha Library Network (OSA OLN) members Pranab Pani and Sunil Kumar Mishra were present at the press conference.
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