Important Facts of the News
- Event: International Conference on “Libraries Empowering Communities – Global Perspectives”.
- Mode of Address: Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan addressed virtually.
- Organiser: P. N. Panicker Foundation.
- Venue: Kanakakkunnu Palace, Thiruvananthapuram.
- Occasion: 80th year of Kerala’s organised library movement.
- P. N. Panicker is regarded as the pioneer of India’s library and literacy movement.
- Vice-President emphasized libraries as spaces for critical thinking, inclusion, and empowered communities.
- Highlighted libraries’ role in digital literacy and combating misinformation.
- Conference dates: 2nd to 3rd November 2025.
- Participants include experts, policymakers, academicians, library professionals, and digital innovators.
The International Conference on “Libraries Empowering Communities – Global Perspectives” in Thiruvananthapuram witnessed Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan addressing participants through a video message. The event, organised at Kanakakkunnu Palace by the P. N. Panicker Foundation, commemorates eight decades of Kerala’s library movement inspired by Shri P. N. Panicker, who is remembered as the guiding force behind India’s modern literacy initiatives.
Libraries as Pillars of Learning and Inclusion
The Vice-President described libraries as temples of learning that strengthen individuals and communities by nurturing curiosity and thoughtful engagement. He noted that from the time of ancient civilizational texts to contemporary community reading spaces, India has valued knowledge as a foundation of progress.
He also referred to the role of spiritual and philosophical visions in shaping India’s knowledge tradition. Citing scholars and sages such as Adi Shankaracharya, he observed that education and wisdom have long guided the country’s collective growth.
Role of Libraries in the Digital Era
In his remarks, Shri Radhakrishnan emphasized that libraries continue to remain relevant even in an age of abundant digital information. While technology provides quick access to content, he noted that libraries help individuals engage with information thoughtfully, counter misinformation, and develop digital literacy along with critical reasoning.
He pointed out that libraries serve as trusted spaces where communities can learn, exchange ideas, and build informed perspectives. Beyond physical bookshelves, they now function as knowledge hubs for lifelong learning.
Kerala’s Legacy of Community Reading
The Vice-President acknowledged Kerala’s long-standing achievements in literacy and education, crediting the influence of P. N. Panicker and the state’s vibrant library network. He observed that the movement has profoundly shaped social development in the region by promoting reading as a pathway to empowerment.
He also praised the motto of the P. N. Panicker Foundation, “Vayichu Valaruka” (Read and Grow), which continues to encourage communities to pursue knowledge with inclusiveness and enthusiasm.
About the Conference
The two-day international conference brings together policymakers, educators, librarians, and digital innovators to discuss the evolving role of libraries in strengthening community participation and expanding equitable access to information. Sessions focus on developing sustainable knowledge ecosystems that support both tradition and technology.
In concluding his message, the Vice-President highlighted the importance of expanding library networks across the country to foster learning, inclusion, and innovation. He stated that knowledge remains one of the strongest pathways toward community empowerment and national progress.