The Library and Information Centre of St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, observed National Librarians’ Day 2026 at the Silver Jubilee Memorial Hall on Tuesday 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 to highlight the enduring relevance of libraries and reading habits in an age increasingly dominated by digital media.

 Addressing the gathering as the chief Guest, Prof. Nandakishore S., Principal GFGC for Women , described the library as “the heart of any education system” and urged students to make regular visits to the library and cultivate a lasting love for books. He also called upon the younger generation to overcome excessive dependence on mobile phones.

 Prof. Nandakishore explained, with examples, how the regular reading of newspapers and competitive magazines could help students broaden their knowledge and progress towards higher positions in life. He stressed the importance of sustained reading as a means of developing awareness and intellectual growth.

 Presiding over the programme, Dr Vijayakumar Moleyar, Vice-Principal of the College, recalled Dr S. R. Ranganathan’s invaluable contribution to the development of library science in India. He said that cultivating the habit of reading books would not only enrich students’ knowledge but also enable them to make a meaningful contribution to the progress of society.

 As part of the observance, a speech competition on ‘The Importance of Libraries in the Digital Age’ was conducted for students. Prizes were distributed to the winners and talented participants at the programme.

 Mr Abdul Rahman, Selection Grade Librarian of the college, welcomed the gathering, while Mr Manohar, Librarian of the Postgraduate Section, proposed the vote of thanks. Students of the Fine Arts Association rendered the prayer.

 Dilshana K. S., a final-year B.Sc. student, compered the programme. Asst Prof., Prashanth Rai, and Jeeta Noronha, library staff member, assisted in the successful conduct of the event.

 Students and members of the teaching faculty were present.