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| Survive Library | | | Vijay Garg
The scale of civilization and sensitivity of a society is measured not only by its physical progress but also by its intellectual and cultural consciousness. Where does this consciousness develop ? Is only in schools and universities ? Or only in the boundary wall of the house ? No, this consciousness also takes shape in the public place where ideas are free, curiosities are purified and knowledge has no cost. That place is public library. The history of evolution of man is essentially a history of discovering knowledge and information. From the beginning of civilization man has made diverse efforts to preserve and share information from the painting of caves to ‘digital archive’. The role of libraries has been the most important in this context. Libraries are the collective memory of humanity and the axis of development more than the reserves of knowledge. views and rights Article 19 of the UN’s Universal Human Rights Declaration-Letter states that ‘every individual has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right also includes the freedom to acquire, assume, and propagate information and ideas without any limitations.’ This right is only meaningful, when there are institutions in society that give everyone equal access to knowledge. Public libraries are the physical expression of this right. When we speak of public libraries, we are also talking about the right that every human being should receive for information, education, and self-development. Libraries are mine of ideas, where every age, caste, class and background person can enter and expand their intellectual horizons. Public libraries are one of those silent pillars of democracy, where parity of information is possible. Be rich or poor, read-written or every person beginning knowledge enters the library with equal authority. That same similarity within a society Strengthens from. When the reach of education in the society increases, it needs forums to nourish which keep curiosity alive by going beyond formal education. The library is the same platform where the limitations of the course break and the reader starts learning according to his speed and interest. There is no exam there, no marks are given, yet the learning process is more live and soulful. This self-motivated study promotes the creative potential of any nation. Another important side of public libraries is that they are symbols of social unity. They accept the plurality of ideas and provide the various votes co-existence under the same roof. Where polarization is increasing in society, places like library are likely to have a peaceful dialogue. Gandhi in the same food of the cupboard and Marks books can be found, Tulsi and Kabir can get along and this is what diversity teaches us tolerance. discretion of knowledge In this age of technology it can be argued that when all the information is available on the internet, what is the need of the library! It should not be forgotten that the Internet gives information then, but does not give knowledge with reference and discretion. Library is a storehouse of structured and reliable knowledge, where the presence of books and their selection is the result of a thoughtful process. In addition, digital access is still a privilege for many, while libraries are public and inclusive. The importance of libraries is not merely intellectual, also on emotional and cultural level. For how many people does a library become a shelter in life difficulties. The feeling of peace there, the smell of books and the stopping of time reading - all this one Mental comforts that maybe not found in any other place. For a teenager who cannot find a conducive environment for studying at home, the library opens a new world. For an old man, who feels lonely, the atmosphere there experiences vibrancy. investment of understanding Today when we are building goods and cinemas from place to place in the name of urbanization and digital development, it is essential that we give equal importance to libraries as well. It is not only a matter of buildings, it is a matter of thinking. Investing in public libraries is a long-term investment. An investment that gives the power to understand future generations to think and forge a better society. It is a legacy that is the collective responsibility of all of us to maintain, enhance and broadcast. Public libraries should not be forgotten to understand only a traditional institution. They are as relevant today as they were before. Maybe even more. The soul of the society is hidden in the shelves of its libraries if ever it is to be read. Books present there are expression of the most beautiful dreams, thoughts and experiences of humanity. It is therefore imperative that we preserve our public libraries not only, but also make them vibrant, prosperous and inclusive. Because where libraries flourish, society also becomes thoughtful, liberal and progressively.
Vijay Garg Retired Principal Educational Columnist Eminent Educationist street kour Chand MHR Malout Punjab |
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