Libraries Remain Vital in Digital Age, Says Writer Bikash Sarkar
At a National Librarians’ Day programme in Guwahati, writer-journalist Bikash Sarkar highlighted the enduring role of books and libraries despite rapid technological change.
GUWAHATI- Eminent writer and journalist Bikash Sarkar has underlined the continuing relevance of libraries in an era of rapid technological transformation, saying that while the world of books has changed significantly, their fundamental appeal remains intact.
Sarkar was delivering the keynote address at a special programme organised at the Harinarayan Dattabaruah Central Library of Assam down town University, Guwahati, to observe National Librarians’ Day.
He described books as a driving force of human civilisation and said technological advancement had brought significant changes to the way books are produced, accessed and experienced. However, he stressed that the essence and appeal of books had remained unchanged.
Sarkar also highlighted the role of libraries in preserving this continuity, describing a library as a “temple of books” and librarians as the custodians of that space.
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During the programme, University Librarian Dr. Ruby Goswami spoke about the life and contributions of Dr. S. R. Ranganathan, who is widely regarded as the father of library science in India.
The observance thus linked the historical foundations of India’s library movement with the continuing role of libraries in an increasingly technology-driven information environment.
At the beginning of the programme, Vice Chancellor Dr. Narayan Chandra Talukdar felicitated keynote speaker Bikash Sarkar.
Addressing the students, University Chancellor Dr. Narendranath Dutta highlighted the importance and relevance of libraries in both their academic and personal development.
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The programme emphasised that libraries remain important not simply as repositories of books but as spaces that encourage reading, learning and the development of a culture of knowledge.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Santosh Mohan Upadhyay. Saraswati Vandana was performed by Brishti Mousam Kashyap, while the programme was conducted by Assistant Professor Pangkhi Kashyap.
The National Librarians’ Day observance at Assam down town University highlighted the continuing role of libraries in promoting reading habits and nurturing a culture of learning, even as technology continues to reshape the way people access information and books.
