KATHMANDU: In a bid to revive the dwindling reading culture in Nepal, Chhahari Organisation Nepal (CON) has undertaken a significant initiative to empower public libraries across the country.
To mark Library Day 2024, CON made a generous donation of books to a public library in Kathmandu on Saturday. The Manohara Public Library, located in Kageshwori Manohara-6, Mulpani, Kathmandu, received books worth Rs 170,000 from CON during a special ceremony.
With the alarming decline in reading habits, CON President Raghab Sharma expressed deep concern for this cultural shift and emphasized the need for alternative sources of knowledge in a world dominated by electronic gadgets. The donated books, according to Sharma, will provide a valuable alternative for locals to embrace the joy of reading.
In collaboration with Project Nepal, Chhahari has also contributed 350 books to the library, further enriching its collection and expanding the literary horizons for readers.
Library Day, observed on Bhadra 15 of the lunar calendar, holds historical significance as it commemorates the 1869 BS decree by King Girwanyuddha Bikram Shah, which allowed the establishment of public libraries in Nepal. It serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering a reading culture and ensuring access to books for the wider population.
CON’s initiative to support public libraries is a commendable step towards cultivating a love for reading and knowledge among the people of Nepal. By investing in these cultural institutions, CON aims to inspire a new generation of avid readers who will contribute to the intellectual growth and development of the nation.
FAQ:
1. What is CON?
CON stands for Chhahari Organisation Nepal, an organization that aims to revive the reading culture in Nepal.
2. What did CON do to empower public libraries?
CON made a generous donation of books to a public library in Kathmandu, marking Library Day 2024. They also collaborated with Project Nepal to contribute additional books to enrich the library’s collection.
3. Which library received the books donation?
The Manohara Public Library, located in Kageshwori Manohara-6, Mulpani, Kathmandu, received books worth Rs 170,000 from CON.
4. Why is there deep concern regarding reading habits?
There has been an alarming decline in reading habits, and CON’s President, Raghab Sharma, expresses deep concern for this cultural shift. He emphasizes the need for alternative sources of knowledge in a world dominated by electronic gadgets.
5. When is Library Day observed?
Library Day is observed on Bhadra 15 of the lunar calendar in Nepal.
Definitions:
– Reading culture: The customs, practices, and habits related to reading, and the overall prevalence of reading within a society.
– Public libraries: Institutions that provide access to a collection of books and other materials for public use, typically funded by the government or charitable organizations.
Related Links:
– Library Association Nepal: The official website of the Library Association Nepal, an organization that promotes library development and advocates for the importance of libraries in Nepal.
– Project Nepal: The official website of Project Nepal, an organization that works towards improving education and providing educational resources to communities in Nepal.
