Mysore/Mysuru: “Science as a subject is a hard nut to crack for some people. Public Libraries must be upgraded so that Science can be understood easily by everyone,” said Zilla Panchayat (ZP) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) K.M. Gayathri.

She was presiding over a training programme on ‘Science Learning Activities, Supervision and Management of Libraries,’ organised jointly by ZP, Karnataka Science and Technology Academy, Bengaluru and Science & Technology Communication, Popularisation & Extension (SCoPE) at Abdul Nazir Sab auditorium in Mysuru ZP recently.

“By upgrading libraries, facilities should be provided to readers who come there seeking knowledge. Get training here to enhance your knowledge. It is the intention of this training programme to introduce Science learning activities for children in all 255 libraries in the district. Science subject is usually in English and a few children find it difficult to understand it properly. Science can be remembered if it is made available in mother tongue. Librarians must actively discharge their duties and organise special activities for children. In case of any problem, bring it to our notice. We will take steps to provide needed equipment and ensure development of libraries. Activities of libraries will be reviewed every 15 days,” said the ZP CEO.

Deenabandhu Seva Organisation’s Founder-Secretary Jayadeva, who inaugurated the training programme, said that he has love for books since his childhood. “If you are in the company of books, it will change your life. Libraries are the treasure house of knowledge and it is only when we understand the potential of libraries and their uses, we realise their importance. Libraries are centres of knowledge for everybody including children. Books influenced Gandhiji’s life and they open doors of knowledge. Use simple Science toys and let children understand Science through them. When we have thirst for knowledge, our inner world expands, other problems will become petty and open new possibilities,” added Jayadeva.

Kollegal Sharma, retired Chief Scientist of CFTRI and author of ‘Jaana Prashne’ donated 500 copies and Adyanadka Krishna Bhat’s ‘Ayda Barahagalu’ (Science Literature) books to all Gram Panchayat Libraries.

ZP Deputy Secretary Dr. M. Krishnamraju, Assistant Secretary Kuldeepa, Project Director B.M. Savitha and District Librarians participated in the training programme.