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New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Sunday described libraries as temples of learning and said they are places that foster critical thinking and empower individuals and communities.
Addressing the International Conference on ‘Libraries Empowering Communities – Global Perspective’ through a video message, Radhakrishnan said that in today’s digital age, libraries act as knowledge hubs that enable people to access authentic information and combat misinformation.
He said that while technology provides easy access to information, libraries create depth, reflection and meaningful dialogue in the society.
The conference was organized by PN Panikkar Foundation at Kanakakkunnu Palace, Thiruvananthapuram.
The event marks the 80th year of the organized library movement in Kerala, inspired by the vision of PN Panikkar, considered the pioneer of India’s library and literacy movement.
In his message, the Vice President appreciated the PN Panikkar Foundation for its continuous contribution in promoting reading culture, digital literacy and community empowerment through knowledge dissemination.
He said the foundation’s motto – “Vaichu Walaruka” (Read and Grow) – guides the society towards enlightenment and inclusion.
The Vice President said that Sri Adi Shankaracharya traveled across India to awaken spiritual awareness and unify diverse thoughts.
He said that countless other saints and thinkers have enriched our civilization with their wisdom, compassion and foresight.
Reflecting on India’s ancient civilizational ethos, the Vice President said that the country’s tradition of learning – from epics to modern libraries – continues to inspire the country’s pursuit of knowledge and social progress.
The Vice President appreciated Kerala’s extraordinary legacy in education and literacy. He paid glowing tributes to PN Panikkar, whose vision transformed libraries into vibrant community centres, bringing books and education closer to every citizen.
Concluding his message, the Vice President said that libraries are dynamic places of learning, inclusion and innovation. He stressed the need to strengthen the network of public and community libraries across the country by empowering people through the power of knowledge.
The international conference at Kanakakkunnu Palace, Thiruvananthapuram on 2nd and 3rd November brings together experts, policy makers, library professionals, academicians and digital innovators to deliberate on the emerging role of libraries in the knowledge society.
The conference celebrates the enduring legacy of Kerala’s library movement and explores strategies to enhance community participation, digital access and sustainable knowledge ecosystem.
–IANS
RCH/UK