The Library Department of Bhogawati Mahavidyalaya, Kurukali and The New College, Kolhapur, under the joint initiative of their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), organized a National Workshop on “Practical Librarianship: Designing Next Generation Library Services” on Wednesday, 22nd January 2025. The workshop was conducted online via Google Meet and witnessed the participation of over 500 librarians, educators, and researchers from across the country.
Inaugural Session
The workshop commenced with a welcome address and introductory remarks by Dr. R.P. Adav, Librarian, The New College, Kolhapur. Dr. Adav introduced the chief guest and keynote speaker, Dr. Nandkishor R. Motewar, Director, Knowledge Resource Center, University of Mumbai, and the resource person, Dr. Shantashree Sengupta, a renowned expert in Library and Information Science with 22 years of professional experience. In his address, Dr. Adav emphasized the workshop’s objectives, particularly the effective utilization of modern technologies in library services.
Following this, Dr. D.A. Chougale, Principal of Bhogawati Mahavidyalaya, Kurukali, and Dr. V. M. Patil, Principal of The New College, Kolhapur, shared their insights. They highlighted the importance of innovative practices, collaborative efforts, and the evolving role of libraries in the academic landscape.
Keynote Address
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Nandkishor R. Motewar, who emphasized the role of libraries as knowledge hubs. He discussed the importance of adopting modern technologies, creating inclusive library spaces, and fostering collaborative networks. Dr. Motewar also lauded the organizing institutions for their efforts in promoting academic excellence and commended librarians for their significant contributions to education.
Session by Dr. Shantashree Sengupta
Dr. Shantashree Sengupta, the resource person for the workshop, provided invaluable insights into modern librarianship. She underscored the role of libraries as centers of knowledge and outlined strategies to make library services more accessible, engaging, and impactful for the younger generation.
Dr. Sengupta elaborated on leveraging digital technologies to enhance library services, focusing on areas such as digital transformation, user-centric services, and virtual library tours. Her session inspired participants with practical solutions and innovative ideas.
Topics Discussed in the Workshop
- Role of Libraries in Higher Education
- Promoting academic excellence through innovative library services.
- Reaching out to more users, both on-campus and off-campus.
- Traditional and Modern Library Practices
- Integration of technology with traditional cataloguing and classification processes.
- Enhancing traditional library services to meet users’ evolving needs.
- Library Literacy and Virtual Library Services
- Training users to efficiently utilize library resources.
- Introducing users to libraries through virtual library tours.
- Collection Development and Budget Management
- Planning resource acquisition effectively while managing budgets.
- Leveraging MoUs and collaborative resource-sharing initiatives.
- Digital and Inclusive Library Services
- Developing digital content for MOOCs.
- Providing inclusive services for persons with disabilities.
- Promoting sustainable green library initiatives.
- Alignment with UGC Guidelines
The workshop aligned with the draft UGC Regulations 2025, focusing on key contributions expected from librarians, such as:
- Designing and implementing innovative information services.
- Creating digital content and managing multilingual collections.
- Developing sustainable green library spaces.
Interactive Q&A Session
The workshop concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where participants actively engaged with the experts to clarify their queries and seek practical advice.
Vote of Thanks
The vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Prashant Kalloli, Librarian, Bhogawati Mahavidyalaya, Kurukali. He expressed gratitude to Dr. Shantashree Sengupta for her insightful guidance and to Dr. Nandkishor R. Motewar for his inspiring keynote address. He also acknowledged the contributions of both principals, participants, and the organizing teams for making the workshop a success.
Outcome
This workshop was a resounding success, providing a platform for library professionals to explore the integration of technology, collaboration, and sustainability in library services. The joint initiative by Bhogawati Mahavidyalaya, Kurukali, and The New College, Kolhapur, set a benchmark for professional development in the field of librarianship.
Kalloli P S
Librarian
Bhogawati Mahavidyalaya, Kurukali
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