Important Facts of the News
- The conference runs from 2 to 3 November 2025 at Kanakakkunnu Palace in Thiruvananthapuram.
- It marks the 80th anniversary of Kerala’s organised library movement.
- Shri P. N. Panicker is recognised as the pioneer of India’s library and literacy efforts.
- The P. N. Panicker Foundation organises the event and promotes the motto “Vayichu Valaruka,” meaning Read and Grow.
- Vice President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan delivered a video message to the gathering.
- Participants include experts, policymakers, library professionals, academicians, and digital innovators.
Vice President’s Vision on Libraries as Pillars of Knowledge
In a thoughtful address, India’s Vice President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan drew attention to the timeless value of libraries during his virtual participation in a key gathering focused on their community impact. Speaking to an audience of scholars and practitioners, he portrayed these institutions as sacred centres for intellectual growth and social upliftment.
Highlighting India’s deep-rooted heritage in education, the Vice President recalled how figures like Adi Shankaracharya journeyed far and wide to spread enlightenment and bridge varied philosophies. He pointed out that generations of wise individuals have shaped the nation’s cultural fabric through their insights and empathy, a legacy that echoes from ancient texts to today’s reading spaces.
Navigating the Digital Landscape with Trusted Resources
Turning to contemporary challenges, Shri Radhakrishnan emphasised libraries’ importance in an era flooded with online content. These hubs, he said, help people sift through facts to avoid false narratives, while building skills in online navigation and analytical reasoning. By offering reliable sources, they encourage deeper engagement over superficial browsing.
Kerala’s strong track record in schooling and reading access received special praise. The Vice President expressed admiration for Shri P. N. Panicker’s efforts in turning book collections into lively spots for public interaction, making education reachable for all. This initiative, now eight decades old, stands as a model for grassroots learning.
Foundation’s Enduring Work in Fostering Reading Habits
The hosting body has played a steady role in encouraging book-loving habits, online education awareness, and group strengthening via shared information. Its guiding principle urges ongoing personal and collective advancement through study. Such work aligns with broader aims of societal harmony and progress.
Global Dialogue on Libraries’ Future Role
The two-day forum unites voices from various fields to discuss how these centres can adapt in a connected world. Topics cover boosting public involvement, improving tech-based entry to materials, and creating lasting systems for information sharing. It honours the southern state’s reading history while seeking fresh approaches for wider reach.
Wrapping up, the Vice President called for expanding access to shared and local book networks nationwide. He viewed them as active zones for education, belonging, and fresh ideas, powered by collective wisdom. As discussions continue, the event underscores libraries’ potential to drive inclusive development across borders.