Karnali Province

Karnali Province in Nepal, known for its rugged terrain, rich cultural diversity, and unique biodiversity, hosts several library and information services that play significant roles in education, research, and community development. Here’s an overview of the library landscape in Karnali Province: According to Survey conducted in 2022 by Ministry of Education, Science and Technology only 27 Libraries found in this province.

This State 6 map shows Karnali local units boundaries and designated area.

1. Public Libraries: Public libraries in Karnali Province serve as crucial centers for access to information and knowledge dissemination. These libraries provide books, newspapers, magazines, and access to digital resources to the local communities. They often organize reading programs, workshops, and cultural events to promote literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement.

2. Academic and School Libraries: Karnali Province is home to various academic institutions, including universities, colleges, and schools. Academic and school libraries in cities like Jumla, Surkhet, and Manma support the educational needs of students and faculty. They maintain collections of textbooks, reference materials, and online databases that facilitate research, teaching, and learning across different disciplines.

3. Specialized Libraries: Some libraries in Karnali Province specialize in specific subjects or cater to particular interests. For instance, there are libraries focused on agriculture, indigenous knowledge, local history, and traditional arts, providing specialized resources and information to researchers, scholars, and enthusiasts. These specialized libraries contribute significantly to preserving and promoting regional knowledge and cultural heritage.

4. Digital Libraries and Information Centers: With the advancement of technology, digital libraries and information centers have become increasingly important in Karnali Province. These centers offer access to e-books, online journals, databases, and internet facilities, bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to information. Digital literacy programs are often conducted to enhance digital skills among residents.

5. Community Engagement and Development: Beyond their traditional roles, libraries in Karnali Province actively contribute to community development initiatives. They serve as venues for community meetings, workshops, and cultural events that promote social cohesion, civic engagement, and local identity. Libraries collaborate with local organizations and government bodies to address community needs through educational programs and capacity-building initiatives.

Challenges and Future Directions: Libraries in Karnali Province face various challenges, including inadequate funding, limited infrastructure, and geographical barriers due to the province’s remote and rugged terrain. Moving forward, there is a pressing need to enhance library services, improve infrastructure, and strengthen the capacity of library staff. Collaborations with NGOs, international organizations, and private sectors can help address these challenges and expand library services effectively.

In conclusion, library and information services in Karnali Province of Nepal are essential for promoting education, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering community development. As the province continues to develop, there is immense potential for libraries to innovate and adapt to meet the evolving needs of their diverse communities.

Nepal Library Association, Karnali Province Committee: संयाेजक श्री डम्बर ढकाल, सम्पर्क नं. ९८४८०३९९९६

सि.नं.

नामथर पद सम्पर्क नं. इमेल

श्री डम्बर कुमार ढकाल अध्यक्ष

श्री संग्राम चौधरी

उपाध्यक्ष

श्री दिनेश डाँगी

सचिव

श्री विनिता सापकोटा

कोषाध्यक्ष

श्री कृष्ण मुरारी शर्मा

सदस्य

श्री बाल कुमारी थापा

सदस्य

श्री जानुका खड्का

सदस्य

सदस्य

सदस्य

१०

सदस्य