| Ranbir Library Jammu in shambles | | Sans catalogue, internet, adequate staff | |
Early Times Report
Jammu, Feb 8: Shri Ranbir Singh State Central Library of Jammu, established by the then ruler, Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1879 is facing neglect and apathy of the successive governments.
Around 140 years old library, has been rendered 'irrelevant' in today's perspective due to lack of basic facilities.
According to readers, the Library is understaffed due to which, it is ill kept and the readers have to face scores of problems. "There are thousands of books, but in absence of updated technology, it is difficult to find a book. We have catalogue (software) of the books in the library, but it has not been used since the day it was purchased around two years back", said a reader, whishing not to be named.
He further said that the library has purchased equipment for JEE and NEET aspirants, but same is still lying packed, and for away from the purpose. "We have at least 15 computers and a broadband connection, but no reader was ever allowed to access internet in the Library", he claimed.
Many students complained that they did not find latest books and journals in the library. "The library subscribes only few newspapers as the administration claims shortage of funds", claimed another reader.
"We are preparing for NET/SLET, but it takes us a day to find a single book here. This State library has no catalogue, no internet facility, and no uninterrupted electricity, no heating arrangements, though the books are in thousands," said a group of young readers.
"There is no provision of drinking water, no separate washroom facilities for male and female readers, dustbins and other basic facilities are missing here", they said. They further added that the readers time and again have met the authorities including Director General Libraries, but to no avail.
Mohammad Saleem, Commissioner Secretary, Culture Department did not respond to repeated calls for his version. |
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