State to convert 82 libraries into model ones

Kolkata: The state Mass Education & Library department will be converting as many as 82 state libraries into model libraries with infrastructure for free

wifi and internet. These libraries will soon receive Rs 3 lakh each for complete overhaul of infrastructure.

The department is imparting specialised training to 40 librarians across the state for effectively handling these model libraries.

After completing their training, these officials will train others in charge of libraries.

"The government is taking a slew of measures to encourage the younger generation to visit libraries in the state. There are around 2,480 libraries across the state,"

minister of state for Mass Education & Library Siddiqullah Chowdhury said.

Chowdhury inaugurated a cyber corner at the Ultadanga State and Central library on Friday.

Students can access books of all libraries across the state through internet facilities at the Ultanadnga library.

"We have already digitised around 31,000 books and are in the process of making 5,000 more digitised," Chowdhury said.

It may be mentioned that the department is developing Career Guidance Centres at three

libraries in the city to facilitate students who are appearing for competitive examinations like West Bengal Civil Services (WBCS).

The department will equip these libraries with books and other relevant study materials so that

the aspiring students can spend time at the library, preparing for their examinations.

The three libraries that will have this infrastructure are based in Ultadanga, Ballygunge and Kidderpore.

The government is also providing funds to non-government sponsored

libraries for boosting infrastructure.

There are 1,036 such libraries in the state and in this current fiscal,

a total fund of Rs 1.76 crore has been allocated to these libraries.