Mangaluru: Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) observed Librarians’ Day 2026 on August 22 to commemorate the 134th birth anniversary of Padma Shri Dr S. R. Ranganathan, widely regarded as the Father of Library Science in India.
The programme was organised by the Department of Library and Information Science in association with the Central Library, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), and the Karnataka State Library Association (KALA), Dakshina Kannada Chapter.
The annual observance recognised the contributions of Dr S. R. Ranganathan, who played a pioneering role in the development of library science in India and dedicated his life to the growth and advancement of the library profession.
Programme commemorates Dr S. R. Ranganathan
The programme began with an invocation by Mr Sanaur, a first-year MBBS student of Yenepoya Medical College. Dr Mamatha Pramod Kumar, Associate Professor and Head (I/c), Department of Library and Information Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), and Organising Chairperson of the event, welcomed the gathering.
The traditional lighting of the lamp was followed by floral tributes to Dr S. R. Ranganathan as a mark of respect and remembrance.
Dr Shakil M, Deputy Registrar, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), presided over the programme. Dr Abhay S. Nirgude, Vice-Principal and Professor of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Medical College, was the chief guest.
The event brought together library professionals, faculty members and representatives of the Karnataka State Library Association, providing a platform to reflect on the evolution of library and information science and the changing role of libraries in academic institutions.
Special address highlights Ranganathan’s contributions
A special address titled “Padma Shri Dr S. R. Ranganathan – His Enduring Contributions to Library and Information Science” was delivered by Dr Janet Dotty Lobo, Chief Librarian, Father Muller Medical College, Mangaluru.
The session highlighted the lasting influence of Dr Ranganathan on the library profession in India. His contribution to the development of systematic approaches to library science has continued to influence library professionals and institutions over the decades.
The observance of his birth anniversary provided an opportunity for participants to remember his contributions and consider the continuing relevance of library and information services in education and research.
Focus on AI-powered libraries
The programme also addressed the growing influence of artificial intelligence in academic libraries.
Dr Vishala B K, Research Coordinator, St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, delivered a special address titled “AI-Powered Libraries: Practical Applications for Academic Libraries.”
The session focused on the practical applications of artificial intelligence in academic library environments. With technology increasingly influencing information access, research and academic services, the discussion highlighted the opportunities available for libraries to adopt emerging digital tools.
The topic also reflected the changing responsibilities of library professionals, who are increasingly required to combine traditional information management practices with new technologies.
The inclusion of AI in the Librarians’ Day programme provided a contemporary dimension to the celebration, connecting the legacy of Dr Ranganathan with the evolving technological landscape of library and information science.
Former professor felicitated
Dr Khaisar Muneebulla Khan, former Professor, Department of Library and Information Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), was felicitated during the programme.
The felicitation recognised his valuable contributions to the library profession and his association with the Department of Library and Information Science.
The recognition formed an important part of the programme, acknowledging the role of experienced professionals in strengthening library education and services.
Library professionals participate in hybrid programme
The Librarians’ Day celebration was conducted in hybrid mode, enabling participation both in person and online.
Executive members of the Karnataka State Library Association, Dakshina Kannada Chapter, faculty members and library professionals from colleges and universities participated in the programme.
The participation of professionals from different academic institutions provided an opportunity for interaction and knowledge sharing among members of the library and information science community.
The event also highlighted the importance of professional associations such as KALA in bringing together librarians and information professionals and supporting the continued development of the profession.
Looking towards the future of libraries
The celebration combined a reflection on the historical contribution of Dr S. R. Ranganathan with a discussion on emerging technologies shaping the future of academic libraries.
While Ranganathan’s pioneering work laid a strong foundation for library science in India, the discussion on artificial intelligence underlined the need for libraries to adapt to technological changes. Academic libraries today are increasingly evolving from traditional repositories of books and information into technology-enabled centres supporting learning, research and knowledge discovery.
Librarians’ Day therefore serves not only as an occasion to remember the pioneers of the profession but also as a platform to discuss the future direction of library services.
Mr Khalid Pasha, Chief Librarian and Organising Secretary, proposed the vote of thanks at the conclusion of the programme. Mr Hamad Bilal, Lecturer, Department of Library and Information Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), compered the event.
The celebration brought together the legacy of Dr S. R. Ranganathan, the contributions of library professionals and the possibilities offered by emerging technologies, making the 2026 Librarians’ Day observance a meaningful occasion for the academic library community.
