Guwahati, August 12: “Books are a driving force of human civilisation. With the advancement of technology, the world of books has also undergone significant changes. However, the essence of books and their appeal remain unchanged. Libraries have continued to play an important role in preserving this continuity. A library is a temple of books, and librarians are the custodians of that temple.” – Eminent writer and journalist Bikash Sarkar made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at a special programme organised at the Harinarayan Dattabaruah Central Library of Assam down town University, Guwahati, on the occasion of National Librarians’ Day.

During the event, the University Librarian, Dr. Ruby Goswami, spoke about the life and contributions of Dr. S. R. Ranganathan, widely regarded as the father of library science in India. At the beginning, Vice Chancellor of the University, Dr. Narayan Chandra Talukdar, felicitated the keynote speaker, Bikash Sarkar.
Addressing the students, University Chancellor Dr. Narendranath Dutta highlighted the importance and relevance of libraries in their academic and personal development.
Dr. Santosh Mohan Upadhyay delivered the vote of thanks. Saraswati Vandana was performed by Brishti Mousam Kashyap, while the event was conducted by Assistant Professor Pangkhi Kashyap.

The programme, organised in observance of National Librarians’ Day, highlighted once again the enduring importance of libraries in promoting reading habits and nurturing a culture of knowledge and learning.