KATHMANDU: Minister for Education, Science, and Technology, Bidya Bhattarai, has pledged to promote and develop libraries across Nepal.
Speaking at an event marking the 17th National Library Day, Minister Bhattarai emphasized the government’s commitment to formulating laws and policies aimed at advancing libraries in the country.
The National Library Day is being celebrated nationwide under the theme “Library for Constant Education.” Minister Bhattarai underscored that it is the State’s responsibility to protect and promote libraries and to cultivate a reading culture.
She pointed out that while libraries were traditionally established at the community level, the Constitution now recognizes the right to a library as a fundamental right.
The Ministry has already prepared a preliminary draft to amend the Book Policy of 2064. Minister Bhattarai noted that in today’s world, books are no longer confined to physical libraries but are increasingly available in digital formats.
She stressed the importance of creating an environment where books of global standards can be accessed through the development of e-libraries.
However, she also highlighted the need for cooperation from all stakeholders and the importance of resource management to achieve this goal.
Bishwo Babu Pudashaini, Secretary of the Ministry and Coordinator of the 17th National Library Day Celebration Committee, emphasized the timely development of libraries as essential sources of information and knowledge.
Pushpa Raj Subedi, Chairman of the Nepal Library Association, called for the introduction of a Library Act if the government is serious about developing libraries.
During the event, Mina Dallakoti was honored as an outstanding library employee, and Mina Thapa Giri received the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The Moti Community Library, established in Phalebas of Parvat district in 2016 BS, was recognized as the best library in the country.
Additionally, Ratna Library in Baneshwor distributed the ‘Laxmi Prasad Devkota Memorial Award.’
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