Shri Basavarajendra H IAS (Karnataka 2012), presently Chairman, Karnataka School
Examination and Evaluation Board, Bengaluru, given concurrent charge of Commissioner – Department of Public Libraries, Bengaluru, Karnataka, upon retirement of Shri Jayavibhavaswamy IAS.
Public Libraries in Karnataka are considered as Pillars of Community and Knowledge. Karnataka boasts a vast network of approximately 6,798 government-owned public libraries. This impressive collection includes over 800 public libraries located in city and district areas and around 5,766 Gram Panchayat Libraries, which are spread across the rural hinterlands. This expansive library system plays an essential role in fostering a culture of reading, promoting education, and acting as accessible information centers for diverse communities. The roots of public libraries in Karnataka can be traced back to the progressive Karnataka Public Libraries Act of 1965, which laid the foundation for the establishment of a systematic library network aimed at reaching people in both urban and rural areas. This historical legislation has since facilitated the growth and development of library services across the state. At the top of this hierarchy is the State Library, followed by City Central Libraries, District Libraries, and Gram Panchayat Libraries, which have been increasingly recognised for their crucial role in serving grassroots communities. One of the standout features of Karnataka’s library system is its commitment to inclusivity. The Gram Panchayat Libraries in Karnataka were restructured in 2019 and now function as Gram Panchayat Library and Information Centres. They have received support from organisations like Azim Premji University, which helps improve rural libraries by training staff, upgrading infrastructure, and promoting digital literacy. Karnataka has modernised these libraries further, the e-library project by the Karnataka Legislature, which encourages the use of electronic resources, allowing people to access a wealth of information from home or local libraries.
Public libraries in Karnataka are not just repositories of books; they are vibrant community hubs that nurture critical thinking and creativity. They frequently host workshops, seminars, and cultural events that engage citizens and promote social interaction. Such activities not only enrich the community’s cultural fabric but also foster a sense of belonging and collective identity.
IndianBureaucracy.com wishes Shri Basavarajendra H the very best.
