Commissioner Secretary Culture reviews functioning of SRS Library Jammu

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 07: Commissioner Secretary, Culture, K Ramesh Kumar, during his maiden visit to Shri Ranbir Singh (SRS) Library Kachi Chawni here, emphasized upon enhancement of operations and provision of efficient library services to the users.

Director Libraries & Research J&K; Deputy Director Libraries Jammu; Assistant Director Libraries Jammu and Chief Librarians, District Library Kathua and Doda besides other officials were present.

The Commissioner Secretary undertook an extensive tour of different sections of SRS Library and took stock of facilities being provided to the public. It was informed that SRS Library Jammu is the first and the premier public library of J&K founded in the year 1879. The library has a collection of nearly 80,000 books in various languages viz. English, Hindi, Urdu, Persian, Dogri and Sanskrit thereby offering a diverse readership choice. With a Reading Room operational on all working days from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm and on Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm, the library witnesses a daily footfall of 100-150 visitors.

It was further informed that upgradation of SRS Library complex Jammu and provision of internet facility are the deliverables to be completed in 100 days. SRS Library Jammu is in the final stages of infrastructural/technical upgradation under Smart City Project by the Jammu Municipal Corporation at an estimated cost of Rs. 5.94 Crore.

The project envisages raising the seating capacity to around 180, automation of library in terms of infrastructure, digital issue/return with adequate safeguards, Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) system, CCTV surveillance, 75-unit computers and 25-unit Acs etc.

During interaction with the officers and the staff, the Commissioner Secretary stressed upon seeking suggestions from the users regarding further improvement in the functioning of libraries and reading rooms. He issued a slew of instructions for smooth functioning of SRS Library, better cleanliness and hygiene of the complex and provision of better facilities to users.

K Ramesh Kumar emphasised the need for concreted steps to maximise the outreach of the library services. He also urged the officers to take necessary steps for return of books from the borrowers. Steps were finalised for commencement of internet services in the libraries across J&K.

The Commissioner Secretary highlighted the need for bringing in certain transformative changes to attract the users towards libraries for cultivating reading habits.

During the interaction, the Commissioner Secretary deliberated upon the departmental issues and assured for their time bound redress.