Nepal Government Reaffirms Dedication to Library Development
Education, Science, and Technology Minister Bidya Bhattarai has reinforced the federal government's dedication to advancing and promoting libraries across the nation. Speaking at the 17th Library Day event on Saturday, themed "Libraries for Lifelong Learning," Minister Bhattarai detailed the government’s active role in formulating the necessary laws, policies, and regulations to enhance library development.
Libraries as a Fundamental Right
Minister Bhattarai emphasized that libraries, once established based on community needs, are now recognized as a fundamental right following the adoption of the Constitution. She stated, "The state has a responsibility to ensure the preservation, promotion, and development of a strong reading culture through libraries."
Amendment of Book Policy and Digital Library Development
The Minister also revealed that the Ministry of Education has prepared a preliminary draft to amend the 2064 Book Policy, recognizing the need for tailored laws, policies, and regulations to support the growth of libraries. She highlighted the importance of developing electronic libraries to facilitate access to global literature, noting that libraries must evolve beyond just physical books.
Resource Management and Stakeholder Collaboration
Minister Bhattarai noted that with the establishment of legal and policy frameworks, managing resources for libraries will become more efficient. She urged all stakeholders in the library sector to cooperate, collaborate, and provide the necessary support and suggestions to enhance library services.
Key Moments from the 17th Library Day Celebration
During the event, Bishwababu Pudasaini, the Coordinator of the Main Organizing Committee for the 17th Library Day and Secretary of Science and Technology at the Ministry of Education, emphasized the need to modernize libraries to meet contemporary demands. He remarked, "Libraries should inspire individuals, leading them to bring others into the fold. Developing model libraries that serve as examples is crucial."
Pushparaj Subedi, President of the Nepal Library Association, underscored the importance of establishing a Library Act to drive significant progress in library development.
Awards and Recognitions
The event honored Meena Dallakoti as the Best Librarian, while library advocate Meena Thapa Giri received the Lifetime Achievement Award. The Moti Community Library in Phalewas, established in 2016 in Khanigaun, Parbat, was recognized as the top community and private library in the country.
Additionally, Ratna Library in Baneshwar received the "Laxmi Prasad Devkota Memorial" honor, which includes a cash prize of NPR 50,000. The awards and honors were presented by Education Minister Bhattarai during the ceremony.
