Sir,

With reference to the letter titled ‘Closure of Government Public Libraries’ published in SOM dated Apr. 27, we would like to clarify as follows:

We understand your concern regarding the temporary closure of the Circulation Section — particularly the issuing of books — in Government Public Libraries in Mysuru due to stock verification.

Libraries are currently conducting a thorough stock verification process to identify missing or lost items and to ensure the accuracy of their collections. This data is essential for audit compliance and to enhance the quality of services offered to the community. The process helps assess the condition and relevance of library resources, which aids in making informed decisions regarding weeding, replacement or repair.

Due to a shortage of technical staff, newspaper services to the public have been temporarily restricted to limited hours — from 8 am to 10 am and 5.30 pm to 8 pm — as against what was mentioned in the letter. The public is encouraged to make use of these designated hours.

Currently, over 36 branch/service station libraries are operating in Mysuru with only 12 permanent staff members. In many cases, a single staff member is managing two to three branches. Despite these challenges, regular newspaper services have been resumed at People’s Park Library on all working days, excluding General and Government Holidays.

Once adequate staffing is in place, we will consider extending the service hours.

Regular services, including book circulation, will resume from May 15, 2025, after completion of stock verification. Meanwhile, instructions have already been issued to all Library In-Charges to ensure that newspaper services continue without disruption.

— B. Manjunath, Deputy Director, City Central Library, Mysuru, Nazarbad, 28.4.2025

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