Public libraries should be strengthened

Sir,

This letter is in response to the news report titled “MCC, MUDA owes Rs. 17 crore dues to library department” (SOM dated Dec.23).

Of late, we have been witnessing shrinking of public space in Mysuru and elsewhere. Because of shrinking public spaces people now have to pay exorbitant price to spend their leisurely time in cafes, clubs and other expensive outlets.

Public Libraries are one of the important public spaces and cultural institutions. It is the responsibility of the government bodies to protect and strengthen public libraries. It is very sad to know that Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) and MUDA is owing huge sum to the Department of Public Libraries in Mysuru city.

This is not just the case of Mysuru alone; in other parts of the State also many local bodies owe huge amount of money to the Department of Public Libraries. What is not clear here is that why is this problem continuing like this. When City Central Library celebrated its centenary year in 2015 this same issue was discussed in local media but still this problem is persisting. MCC and MUDA should take concrete measures to release the cess they collect for the development of public libraries to the concerned Department.

The public libraries in Mysuru are in very good conditions compared to other districts. The Deputy Director Manjunath and his staff at the City Central Library are striving hard to provide better service to the citizens by expanding the building, renovating and adopting ICT for library services. Kuvempunagar Branch Public Library was upgraded last year and now we can see young students preparing for IAS/KAS and other competitive exams in large numbers there. This library is well-equipped with various sections and rest rooms with good number of journals and magazines. Students study there for long hours without any hindrances. New branch library was also opened for the public in J.P. Nagar very recently.

The City Central Library on Irwin Road is always crowded with people of all ages and there is no space for further expansion. To overcome this problem Deputy Director of City Central Library fought hard and initiated the process of constructing new building at the People’s Park. This library will be certainly a new addition to the cultural city and Mysureans to be more informed and responsible citizens. MCC and MUDA should not become hindrances in developing Public Libraries, instead they should extend all possible support to strengthen public libraries and other public spaces.

– N. Vasantha Raju, Kuvempunagar, 25.12.2018

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