Dr Giridhari’s “Dynamic library service and trend of social revolution” – A brief review
Ch Ibohal Singh
Contd from previous issue
The author also proposed in the chapter to give more emphasis for the development of rural libraries in North East India. Library associations play a crucial role in the movement and development of libraries. It is a universal truth, as agreed upon by the library fraternity, academicians, intellectuals and social workers.
Giving the role of such associations towards awakening and movement of libraries in India in brief, the chapter discusses the context in Manipur analysing the role and activities of MALA, AMCOLA, RAS, NE Chapter
The contribution of the Library Science education by Manipur University has also been considered as a milestone in the history of library movement in the State. Growth and development of libraries in Manipur has also been detailed. Networking and modernization of libraries are basics to fulfill the needs of the users community in one side and sustainability of the library in other side. In this context Chapter 10 of the book highlighted the proposal for Manipur Library Network (MALINET) to implement in Manipur. Chapter 11 of the same also insisted on general perspective on modernization and automation of library. Library should be considered as an important component in every household to meet day to day and casual needs.
Basically small but a home library plays a unique role in meeting needs of the family members. In this regard, Chapter 12 of the book also throws light on the maintenance of home library. We are approaching towards a knowledge based society. Emergence of National Knowledge Commission (NKC) in India has given impact in enhanced access to knowledge resources. The overview given on that in Chapter 13 of the book is an added feature.
In the concluding part of the book the author suggested some fundamental points towards having a sound and conducive atmosphere in the society with dynamic role of library systems and their services to bring social revolution. In this regard the role of authorities, NGOs, funding agencies, schools, colleges, etc has been called for to be very proactive. The need for implementing the long pending “the Manipur Public Libraries Act, 1988” has been emphasized upon. The annexures appended in the book provide valuable sources for references on many aspects. The index provided at the end which was not in the first edition, has valued the book more. By and large, it is a new addition to the stock of Library and Information Science. The book will serve the needs for the students, scholars, teachers, social workers, policy makers, etc. It is a valuable contribution from a retired aged professional in the field with a taste of spiritualism to bring social revolution.
The reviewer can be reached through e-mail: cisingh@manipuruniv.ac.in.