KL NEWS NETWORK
SRINAGR
Vice-Chancellor, University of Kashmir, Prof Khurshid Iqbal Andrabi on Saturday highlighted role of technology in transforming modes and forms of book reading and called for “blending” classical library set-ups with demands of modern times.
Speaking during a programme organized to mark ‘World Book and Copyright Day’, Prof Andrabi said, “The importance of traditional format of books will always be there. But we cannot undermine the compulsions of technology and therefore the classical library set up has to be blended with demands of modern times for its sustenance.”
The programme was organized by University’s Allama Iqbal Library.
Prof Andrabi said: “A book is a book, whether it’s in traditional printed form or in electronic format. It depends upon reader’s interest and compatibility that which form of book reading he or she would prefer. However, what is more important is that the message contained in a book is not lost in this debate of ‘traditional versus online book reading’.”
In his remarks, J&K’s former Chief Information Commissioner, G R Sufi, highlighted the significance of book reading.
Chief Librarian, Allama Iqbal Library, Dr Abdul Majeed Baba, said, “There has been a great revolution in information technology. We have e-books available now, but traditional print books have their own value.”
He talked about importance of inculcating reading habits among youth.
A book exhibition on ‘great libraries of the world’ was also held on the occasion while a book titled ‘Library Automation in India’ was also released.
