Mangaluru: Father Muller Medical College, in collaboration with the Karnataka State Library Association® (KALA), Bengaluru, celebrated National Library Week on 19 November 2025 at the Decennial Memorial Hall of the Father Muller Knowledge Centre. The observance highlighted the value of libraries, reading habits and intellectual growth among students and faculty.
Inaugural ceremony highlights the culture of reading
The programme commenced at 3 p.m. with a prayer song, followed by the dignitaries being escorted to the dais by Dr John J. S. Martis, Professor of General Surgery and Chairperson of the Central Library Committee, and Dr Janet Dotty Lobo, Chief Librarian and Event Coordinator.
The event was graced by Chief Guest Dr S. L. Kadadevarmath, President of the Karnataka State Library Association, Bengaluru. Other dignitaries present included Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director, FMCI; Rev. Fr Dr Michael Ligory Santhumayor, Administrator; Dr Venkatesha B. M., Vice-Dean; Dr Shekara H. P., Librarian, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) and General Secretary, KALA; and Dr Mamatha Pramod Kumar, Head (I/c) and Associate Professor, Library and Information Science, Yenepoya (Deemed-to-be University).
The formal inauguration took place with the lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries.
Encouraging reading habits among students
In his keynote address, Dr Kadadevarmath explained the significance of National Library Week, celebrated across India from 14 to 20 November. He appreciated the Father Muller community for commemorating the sixth day of the celebration and engaged students in a thought-provoking interactive session.
A token of appreciation and mementos were presented to the Chief Guest, the General Secretary of KALA and the resource person as a gesture of gratitude.
Presiding over the event, Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo emphasised the importance of cultivating a regular reading habit. He proposed renaming the observance as “Reading Book Week” to inspire students to read at least one book per month—twelve books a year—to enrich their knowledge and perspective.
Guest lecture explores the role of libraries in holistic wellbeing
Following the inaugural ceremony, Dr Mamatha Pramod Kumar delivered a special lecture on the transformative role of libraries. She described the library not merely as a quiet space but as a luminous hub that inspires the mind, uplifts the spirit and enriches personal wellbeing. A certificate of appreciation was presented to her at the conclusion of the session.
Strong participation from FMCI community
The programme saw participation from principals of various FMCI colleges, department heads, Central Library Committee members, students, KALA members and library staff. The event concluded with the National Anthem, followed by a photo session and refreshments.
