The world is moving towards digitalisation, but we still have the same outdated system. The College Library Sciences Department under the Government is suffering from neglect, requiring significant effort. Dr Raees Ahmed Samdani expressed these views while addressing the “1st College Librarians Symposium,” organised by the Society for Promotion of Reading and Improvement of Librarians (SPRIL) in collaboration with Library Information Innovators, held at the auditorium of Adamjee Government Science College, Karachi.
He said that the late former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was the only ruler who announced the establishment of 50,000 libraries, and the Pakistan National Centre is one link in that chain, which included a library and an auditorium where events on academic, literary, and social activities were held. He stated that Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s educational philosophy and efforts are commendable. Dr Raees Ahmed Samdani said that in his 35-year career, he had never organised such a college librarians’ symposium, and he considers the symposium’s holding a welcome development.
He remarked that college librarians serve a group of students who are delicate in terms of age and mentality, preparing them to step into a new world, and if the importance of books and libraries is instilled in them, students will continue to become part of society in the future.
Principal of Adamjee Government Science College, Professor Nasir Iqbal, said that he appreciates the efforts of the members of the College Library Sciences Department who organised the first College Library Symposium at Adamjee Government Science College.
He stated that aligning with the demands of the current era, research, and modern requirements included in the subject is a basic necessity, and such events should continue to be held in colleges. He emphasised highlighting librarians’ services and efforts. The importance of digital libraries and maintaining a connection between students and libraries is essential. He said that it is the job of librarians to acquaint college students with the utility and importance of libraries so that the young generation’s relationship with books remains intact, and he wants librarians Rabiya Faridi and Chief Librarian of Adamjee College, Farheen Mahmood, to continue organising such events in the future.
Limit the use of artificial intelligence to the extent necessary for assistance, so that your abilities can be further highlighted. Use artificial intelligence in your work and also meet the demands of the modern era. Librarian Aamir Subhani said that this is the first practical comprehensive symposium to recognise the long services of college librarians. He requests that all college librarians teach students to love books and play an important role in making them positive and effective individuals.
Among those who spoke were active members of the Society for Promotion of Reading and Improvement of Librarians (SPRIL) and Librarian Rabiya Faridi, and the librarian of SZABIST University, Syed Izhar Hussain. Syed Fasihullah recited the Holy Quran. The event began with the national anthem. The duties of hosting were performed by Shahzad Tareen and Jawaher Aleem.
