Mizoram Governor General V. K. Singh underscored the need to strengthen public libraries, noting that their significance has diminished over time. Speaking at the 80th foundation day of Delhi University’s Department of Library and Information Science, held at the Vice Regal Lodge Convention Hall, he urged a revival of India’s once-strong library tradition.

Singh remarked that in earlier times, the quality of an institution was often judged by its library. While acknowledging that libraries have evolved, he stressed that their importance remains intact. He highlighted the growing relevance of information science and reiterated that education forms the foundation of national progress, adding that the country’s most distinguished individuals emerge from its universities.

Presiding over the programme, DU Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh emphasized that despite technological advances reshaping libraries, books will remain indispensable. He noted that while formats and mediums may change, the act of reading cannot lose its importance. Citing India’s academic heritage, he referred to Nalanda University as a symbol of the power of knowledge and recalled Maharaja Sayajirao of Baroda’s pioneering role in establishing public libraries in India during the early 20th century.

The Vice-Chancellor explained that Sayajirao introduced the practice of collecting a library cess to fund book acquisitions, and his contributions are commemorated through the Sayajirao Gaekwad Library at Banaras Hindu University.

Earlier, Department Head K. P. Singh delivered the welcome address and outlined the department’s achievements. His book Library Information Science Education and Research in India was released during the event, which was attended by senior officials, academicians, and students.