by Manali Sunil Acharya
National Librarians Day is observed annually on 12th August, to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable contributions of librarians and their essential role in promoting education, literacy, and a love for reading. This day highlights the dedication and hard work of librarians, who serve as the guardians of knowledge and information, ensuring that resources are accessible to everyone.
The origins of National Librarians Day lie in the recognition of the crucial role that librarians play in our communities and educational institutions. Historically, libraries have been the hubs of knowledge, offering a wide range of resources such as books, journals, and digital media. Librarians, as the custodians of these resources, are vital in guiding users to the information they need, fostering literacy, and supporting life-long learning.
This day is an opportunity to recognize the expertise of librarians in organizing and managing information, their commitment to fostering a love for reading across all age groups, and their advocacy for intellectual freedom and the right to information. National Librarians Day celebrates their efforts in creating inclusive and welcoming spaces where people can explore, learn, and grow.
A prominent figure in the field of librarianship is S.R. Ranganathan, an Indian mathematician and librarian whose contributions have had a lasting impact. Born on 9th August, 1892, in Shiyali, Tamil Nadu, India, Ranganathan is often hailed as the “Father of Library Science in India“.
Ranganathan’s most notable contribution is the Five Laws of Library Science, published in 1931, which have become foundational principles in the field:
1. Books are for use.
2. Every reader his or her book.
3. Every book its reader.
4. Save the time of the reader.
5. The library is a growing organism.
These laws highlight the importance of accessibility, user-centered service, and the evolving nature of libraries.
Additionally, Ranganathan developed the Colon Classification system, a flexible method of organizing library materials using letters and numbers, which can easily adapt to new subjects. He also championed library legislation in India, leading to the Madras Public Libraries Act of 1948, which facilitated the establishment of public libraries across the country. Furthermore, he pioneered library education by starting a Certificate course in Library science at Madras Library Association in 1929. This course had taken over by Madras University in 1931 later. Furthermore, he established the Documentation Research and Training Centre (DRTC) in Bangalore, both of which have become crucial institutions for education and research in library science.
Libraries and librarians play a pivotal role in the educational system by providing students, educators, and researchers with access to a vast array of resources, from books and academic journals to digital databases and multimedia content. These resources are essential for supporting academic research, classroom learning, and personal enrichment. Librarians promote literacy and lifelong learning through reading programmes, book clubs, and workshops, helping individuals of all ages develop new skills and knowledge. In an age of information overload, librarians teach crucial information literacy skills, guiding users in evaluating the credibility of sources, navigating digital information, and using research tools effectively. Libraries also serve as inclusive learning environments where people from diverse backgrounds can come together to learn and collaborate, with librarians ensuring that collections and services are accessible and reflective of the communities they serve. Additionally, librarians are experts in selecting, acquiring, and managing collections that meet the needs of their users, curating resources that support curricula, research interests, and community needs, thereby ensuring that library collections remain relevant and up-to-date.
National Librarians Day is not only a celebration of the profession but also a tribute to the enduring legacy of figures like S.R. Ranganathan, whose vision and dedication continue to shape the future of librarianship. As we honour librarians, we recognize their essential role in the educational ecosystem and their ongoing commitment to fostering knowledge and enlightenment in society.
(The writer is the College Librarian of St.Joseph Vaz College, Cortalim-Goa)
