An Interview with a Librarian

Dr. Mayank Trivedi: A Self-Motivated Librarian

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Sat, 17 Apr 2021 09:35:00 +0000

Dr. Mayank Trivedi is a scholar with expertise in human interaction with online information, economics, and public policy, along with administrative experience in higher education. Dr. Trivedi is presently the University Librarian (Professor Grade) and a Senate Member at Smt. Hansa Mehta Library, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara. He has been actively involved in leveraging e-learning, content creation, open education resources (OER) and online lectures. He is a science graduate with a Diploma in Computer Science and a Ph.D. in Library and Information Science, with exposure to a several-advanced training program on the application of IT to Library Management.

Dr. Trivedi is a recipient of IFLA, SHASTRI Fellowships, ETD (Travel Grants), and a LeAP Awardee-MHRD (2020), The Most Dynamic Librarian Award, and has visited several countries concerning various assignments.

He is affiliated to various academic committees/bodies/groups. Dr. Trivedi has also acted as an Expert Member/Examiner/Member of the Committee to the various professional bodies and institutions. He is a visiting faculty at various universities in Gujarat province. He has been contributing as an examination setter for MPPSC, GSET, PET, and various other competitive examinations. He is a member of the Editorial/Advisory Board in many National/International journals.

He has been the Conference Director/Member of the organizing committee/Keynote speaker/Chief guest/Resource person in various National and International conferences/ Orientation/Refresher courses. Under his guidance, 11 students have been conferred Ph.D. degrees and 8 research scholars are pursuing a Ph.D. He has guided a number of Students for BLIS, MLIS, MPhil, and PGDCA of various universities. In 22+ years of professional career, he has published 40+ papers, delivered 100+ lectures, authored/edited 5+ important books, and sponsored various causes, and supported a number of organizations associated with the Library and Information Science field. Dr. Trivedi is a very knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and energetic librarian who always looks for opportunities to participate in a wide range of services and professional responsibilities in a dynamic environment.

Interview

Question 1: Tell us a little about yourself. Your background and your education.

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: First, I wish to congratulate you on this innovative work, which not only creates curiosity among young LIS professionals but they can follow the best practices or success stories of the legends.

Coming to my career, I graduated from Gujarat University with Chemistry and thereafter did my MLIS from Saurashtra University and Ph.D. from HemchandracharyaNorth Gujarat University, Patan. I am in this profession not by choice but by chance. But after joining this profession, I am fully dedicated to the profession and achieved the highest position (the only Professors' grade University Librarian) in the State of Gujarat.

Question 2: How long have you worked in the LIS Profession and how did you get your start in it?

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: I started my career with R &D Library, Cadila Laboratories Limited, Ahmadabad (Then 3rd largest Pharmaceuticals Company across India) as an Information Scientist. Then I did a Certificate Course in Library Science. After four years of service at Cadila Labs. Ltd., in which I learned a lot of things about Chemical Abstracts, formulation, synthesis, and so on. During this period, I took part twice in B V Patel All India Essay Competition and got the First and Second prizes, respectively.

Then I got a government job at Shri M P Shah Government Medical College, Jamnagar, where I have helped to establish a new Library at Govt Dental College & Hospital, Jamnagar. I had learned many things like searching Index Medicus, preparing MD/MS dissertations, etc. The most important thing is the accuracy, as Health care professionals are having very little time to come to the library and to read as they have to perform a multi-type of duties. So, they should be provided accurate information that too on time. I have completed my MLIS during this period and got a rank in the University too.

Question 3: You are working as the University Librarian (Professor Grade) and a Senate Member at Smt. Hansa Mehta Library, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU), Vadodara. since 2010. What changes you have brought to the library since your inception?

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda is a unique residential University having 45000+ students on campus and the only grant-in-aid University in the State imparting education in English medium. Smt. Hansa MehtaLibrary of the University is the second-largest University Library System after BHU. The Library has 13 departmental libraries. Before I joined as Librarian of the library, although it was automated, but there was a dearth of e-resources.

Faculties and researchers have seen tremendous vibrancy during the last decade. Information is delivered on their desktop within no time. A user group (Email) of MSU was created for the first time in 2010.

The Library is one of the 22 Document Delivery Centres identified by INFLIBNET. The Library has a seating capacity for 2000+ readers and was centrally air-conditioned in 2013. Later in 2016 Solar Panels were installed in the library. Library uploaded all the Ph.D. thesis of MSU to SHODHGANGA and are accessible on Institutional repository (IR) and ProQuest Dissertation and Thesis (PQDT) too.

The library is among the top 20 University libraries across India (2013) by INFLIBNET. Almost every year the use of learning resources is increasing, which tends towards the increase in publications and ultimately the research impact of the University. University'sh-Index has tremendously increased during the last five years. OpenKnowledge Gateway (OKG) is being created for the benefit of faculty and researchers. Exclusive Library Website revamped in 2018, it is dynamic and updated on a real-time basis. Research Information System- an exclusive platform is created for researchers. We started remote access to learning resources in 2018, which proved very much beneficial to the faculties during COVID-2019.

Question 4: Please give some insights about the Research Support Services of The Maharaja Sayajirao University Library During the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: During Covid-2019 Pandemic, the University library organized many webinars, trial access to learning resources, support services to the faculties for anti-plagiarism checking for which University Librarian is the coordinator. The library has extended the services for conducting various meets like Google meet, etc. Also, given support to generate various citation styles. The library has provided Document Delivery Services too during Covid-19.

Question 5: You were being associated with PAC Committee at BAOU, Ahmedabad for BLIS and MLIS courses. Today LIS profession is facing so many problems, especially for the people who are working with private organizations, I would say the cause lies in roots from where the foundation of the profession is made (LIS Schools). There is a huge gap between what LIS students’ study and what LIS professionals actually do. Do you agree with me? Give reasons to support your answer.

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: This is a line especially we are hearing for long....."There is a very big the gap between the demand of the profession and the Professionals we are getting from LIS schools". Particularly I am hearing this statement for a decade, but I cannot see much improvement in this area.

As per my understanding, after Dr. Ranganathan, none of the Indian LIS professionals has done significant research in the field of Library and Information Science. So, there are all the changes that our profession can be taken over by other professionals. There is an acute need to change the LIS curriculum across India. UGC and MHRD have to make very fast decisions.

Especially after COVID-2019, all definitions of LIS Profession have been changed for example libraries are getting only virtual users nowadays, so there is an urgent need to redefine the terms "Users", "Books Issue-return" etc. The same way the services which we were catering to the end-users are also changed.

Rejuvenating library studies is highly essential. Knowledge-driven societies have embraced the transition from print to digital libraries, helping bridge the digital divide by providing everyone equal access to information. In times when fake news and misinformation are rife on the internet, the importance of libraries as custodians of authentic information and promoters of the reading culture assumes even more importance.

I am associated with Program Advisory Committee, Courses are offered on distance learning mode since the inception of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU)- the only State Open University. In the current situation, every academic institution has been forced to offer courses in virtual mode. Many Universities in the US and UK have declared their timetable of 2021 on totally virtual mode.

Today, around 100+ universities in India offer LIS graduate and postgraduate degrees, churning out about 2000+ LIS graduates every year. However, many universities neither have full-time LIS faculty nor librarians due to poor succession plans.

Lack of local or global collaborations between librarians, the LIS teaching community, the information industry, and corporate bodies also adds to the woes of the discipline.

Post pandemic, it has become even more challenging for LIS graduates to get jobs. Apart from the budgetary constraints that libraries face, it has also become challenging to retain physical library spaces due to the falling number of footfalls and competition from other sectors for space.

I am 100% agree with you, that an urgent need is there to reframe the LIS curriculum and of course, the role of LIS associations also needs to be redefined.

Question 6: Prior to your current position you worked as a University Librarian & Publication Officer at Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar. Pen down some major accomplishments during your stay at the university library.

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: Sardar Patel University (SPU), established in the name of the Iron man of India, is a very prestigious University of Gujarat State. I feel happy to share some of my contributions to this great University.

When I joined SPU in 2008, there was no information on Bhaikaka Library on the SPU website. I created a webpage and update it regularly. The physical condition of the library was not good as no renovation took place since its inception. I prepared a proposal for renovation and submitted it to UGC and got a grant of Rs. 30 lakhs for the same.

“Gyangangotri”, a very prestigious Gujarati Knowledge Encyclopaedia, was digitized for the first time with the support LIS department. I am also associated with the department for teaching. As a Publication officer, I used to encourage all the faculties for increasing publications, I have also published one book as an author. I organized SOUL training, IRTPLA, and many other programs at SPU.

Question 7: Please share some of your experience in the development of Open Knowledge Gateway (OKG), IR @ MSU, and the web portal of Bhaikaka Library, Vallabh Vidyanagar.

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: As I have mentioned, in spite of having very good research facilities and learning resources MSU lacked publications, research, collaboration and interoperability initiatives. I initiated Open KnowledgeGateway (OKG), a Library webpage highlighting Online resources available in Public Domain and later on it was replicated at MSU.

The interoperability of scholarly content is highly important. I also created an Institutional Repository (IR) using DSpace Software and customized it as per the requirement of MSU. Preprints, Annual Reports, Rare books, Scan books, Ph.D. thesis are uploaded on the IR. Facilities have been extended to the faculties to upload the documents from their departments. The Repository is registered on ROAR and DOAR too. In this way, the faculties and researchers of MSU are getting global recognition and Impact.

Question 8: Please share the uniqueness of the Vadodara Center of Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Open University, Ahmedabad.

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: I took the charge of the Centre was in 2015. At that time total enrolment of the Centre was only 250, today we have 3500+ students on roll at Vadodara Centre. We are catering information to the students through the WhatsApp group. We are supporting the students to take up online lectures conducted by the University. We are also scheduling Orientation and Counselling for the benefit of the students. So, the Centre is trying to "reach to the unreached" - which is the motto of distance learning.

In fact, looking to the tremendous growth in enrolment at Vadodara Centre, BAOU has approved a Regional Centre at Vadodara too. Further, Vadodara Centre will be facilitating Professional and Vocational courses also from 2021 onwards.

Question 9: Please give insight into your project “Digitization of University Library of SP University”.

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: It was a minor research project submitted to UGC, in which Gyangangotri - Gujarati Encyclopaedia (Multivolume) was digitized. The encyclopedia a very rare and out-of-print publication. Under the project, a digitization facility was created at the Department of Library and Information Science, SPU.

Question 10: Please tell me something about “Daily Information Dose” on your Facebook page.

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: Our brains depend on information to work optimally. The quality of information we engage with largely determines our perceptions, beliefs, and attitudes. It could be information from other persons, the media, libraries, archives, museums, publishers, or other information sources via Internet. People across the world are witnessing a dramatic increase in access to information and communication. While some people are starved for information, others are flooded with print, broadcast, and digital content. Since there is an information explosion, it is difficult to find correct and authentic information.

Information Literacy (IL) provides answers to the questions that we all ask ourselves at some point. Information literacy skills empower people to think critically about Information. It has a lifelong impact on readers. The information has a value, the understanding that information possesses several dimensions of value, including as a commodity, as a means of education, as a means to influence, and as a means of negotiating and understanding the world. The flow of information through systems of production and dissemination is impacted by legal, socio-political, and economic interests. It is developing new feelings, interests, values.

How can we access, search, critically assess, use and contribute content wisely, both online and offline? What are our rights online and offline? What are the ethical issues surrounding the access and use of information? How can we engage with ICTs to promote equality, intercultural and interreligious dialogue, peace, freedom of expression, and access to information?

"Daily Information Dose" - an initiative started to fulfill the goal of SDG No.4 "Quality education for all" which is also a part of the UNESCO initiative "Media Information Literacy" and also in support with the "Digital India" movement of which the 6th pillar is "Information for all" The initiative was started in the month of June 2020 to generate Information Awareness among the Society. The feature covers global, national, and local level personalities, events, and important incidences. Social Media is also playing a very vital role in Information Literacy. The work is also recognized by ASIS&T and been given the "Infoshare award" 2020-21. The information is shared consistently with accuracy at 8.30 AM sharp on WhatsApp and all Social Networking tools like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Telegram. Links to the uploads are:

WhatsApp: MSU groups
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libmsu1/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mayank.trivedi2/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/libmsu

The editor of Chitralekha - Gujarati Weekly (Digital edition) - An International Edition has approached and requested to share the same information in the Gujarati language. So it is uploaded daily with the title "Today in the History" with the link: https://chitralekha.com/today-in-the-history/today-in-the-history-30012021/

Question 11: Given the digital environment enveloping libraries and the opportunities and challenges it presents, how should we deal with the issues like library access and lending of e-books, and digital preservation of content?

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: Library and information science (LIS) practitioners in India are facing a unique threat from cutting edge e-learning and knowledge organization approaches, prompting librarians to call for a revamp of the traditional academic discipline.

In an era when the internet has become the biggest, freely accessible library, professionals in the field feel they may become redundant with “Google replacing the librarian”. Already plagued with systemic issues such as lack of modern infrastructure, efficient teaching, or research-oriented manpower, the LIS discipline has suffered a further blow during the COVID-19 pandemic, as teaching, learning, and information gathering shifted completely online. This has forced many libraries to provide remote access to digital content without the need for patrons to physically walk into a library space. LIS education and practice are passing through a challenging phase due to a drastic change in the information environment and changing patron needs,

We have to redefine the library access and lending of e-books, digital preservation, etc. Nowadays we are getting e-only content. So, the archival, digitization, and preservation of e-only content need to be considered. New Library Policy should be designed. It should be a part of the New Education Policy (NEP).

Question 12: What do you see as the most important issues facing our profession today, both for LIS teachers and librarians? How to address them?

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: The most important issue our profession facing is the lack of skilled LIS professionals. The profession and technology are changing very fast and our curriculum is not changing at the speed of the technology speed. Hence gap needs to be reduced.

These changes are inevitable, given technology is changing at an unprecedented rate. “The solution lies in revising India’s LIS curricula so that professionals can keep pace with these emerging trends. But this will not be possible neither only by the LIS teachers nor only by the librarians. Collaborative efforts can be made and respect from both the side to each other is highly desired and it is the need of the time.

As per my experience, I have seen very few LIS departments are in harmony with the Library or librarians. So, cooperation and collaboration between Department and library is the utmost need of the time.

Question 13: Membership organizations, need to show their value to enroll and keep members. What do library associations need to do to keep the organization relevant to LIS professionals, particularly those new to the profession? What ideas or strategies do you have to balance their budget and to increase revenues to support member activities?

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: Associations have to frame various Policies, standards, and even ethical policies. Any association should not limit its role to conduct seminars, conferences, and workshops. They have to take up issues with the respective governments and need to see its implementation too. The academic status of the librarians and filling up the vacant posts are a few of the issues which any association should focus upon. The conditions of School libraries are also pathetic. To inculcate the reading habits among Society, we need to catch the readers young. So, we should start all the initiatives from School libraries. Then Chief Minister of Gujarat has started a very good initiative, "Vanche Gujarat" This initiative/movement can be replicated nationally/globally.

In the same way, there should be a national policy for public libraries too. We can introduce a library Cess at the national level to strengthen the public libraries, which can reduce the revenue problem. We can introduce corporate membership to all academic libraries. Public libraries across India also required to be transformed into Community Information Centre.

Question 14: What is the most enjoyable part of your job?

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: Librarianship is a multitasking profession that imbibes best practices from many other disciplines. Librarians must master technology that helps digitalize, automate and introduce content management systems to institutional repositories. Librarians must be abreast with research tools such as data analytics, data visualization, effective information, and data search/retrieval, reference management tools, research data management (RDM), and identify plagiarism and create awareness about academic integrity.

My entire career is truly enjoyable. Especially, when things are difficult and the content rarely available and when you get it with all your whole-hearted efforts and deliver it to the end-user is the most enjoyable and satisfactory moment.

There are lots of enjoyable moments in my career, and this space is not enough to describe all.

Question 15: What is your biggest challenge?

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: I believe that, if there is no challenge, there is no fun in doing work. So, I took the challenge as my hobby. The harder the challenge, the greater the success. So, never afraid of taking up challenges, if you solve them you will be on the top and if you cannot solve them, you will become the greatest learner. So, in both cases, it will benefit you.

Question 16: What piece of advice would you give to someone just starting in the library profession?

Dr. Trivedi's Answer: Librarians of tomorrow will also need to have a deep understanding of Open Science, Open Access, Digital Humanities, Virtual Reference Services, Cloud Computing, Scientometrics, Semantic Web, Web 3.0, Altametrics, Mobile-based library services, and Text Mining. Rejuvenated librarians should be able to use expert systems and Robotics, Internet of Things (IoT), Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR) tools, Semantics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML) in their routine work.

As India is drafting it's National Educational Policy (NEP) 2020, we the librarians feel that a discipline in the academic and research programs of leading Institutes of higher learning. LIS education in India should be standardized at par with global practices. The government can think to start an Indian Institute of Library and Information Science at par with IITs and IIMs. The Library Profession is the noblest profession. Librarian is the "teacher of teachers". In this career, you will learn a lot of things and superficial knowledge of all subjects, i.e. Universe of Knowledge.

So, enjoy your career. All the best and wishing you glorious success...

(It was a great honour to take an interview with a dedicated, very humble, and very hard-working professional like Dr. Mayank Trivedi. Thank you so much, Dr. Trivedi, for sparing time from your busy schedule).

Dr Meenal Oak: An Administrative Librarian

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Sun, 23 Aug 2020 11:24:00 +0000

Dr. Meenal Oak is a Versatile Librarian. She is a very dedicated, sincere, and effective library professional. Her intellectual curiosity and learning aptitude will always be a hallmark of her performance. She is a beautiful person with a beautiful spirit. She always has a smile on her face. She is always ready to take challenges. She has more than 25 years of professional experience as a librarian.

She is at present working as a faculty member at Maharashtra Education Society Institute of Management and Career Courses (MES-IMCC), Pune, Maharashtra. She is also Coordinator of IGNOU Study Center, SET- NET Workshop, PGDLIMAN & MES Koha Project. Apart from the hardcore librarianship work, she has handled multifold activities in the academic field. She also has teaching expertise and teaches Management of Libraries & Information Centers, Library automation, ICT in Libraries & Knowledge organization for the last 20 years in the conventional mode as well as in the distance mode of education. She has been invited to several places in India including the corporate sector libraries to the Central University Libraries and Departments of Library & Information Science to conduct the sessions as a resource person and as a keynote person. She is an active elective member (EC) of MANLIBNET and also one of the Core Committee Members of MANLIBNET, India.

Dr. Meenal is the receiver of- the MES Gunawant Shikshak Puraskar 2013-14, Best Teacher Award from Lions Club of Poona; Ajinkya Dr Patil University, and Mahaganesh Technical Education Society Pune; winner of the Best Paper Award at the International Conference on Managing Library and Information Systems in the Digital World: Challenges and Opportunities, organized by MANLIBNET 2015 at TAPMI, Best Promoter Award of PULISAA Pune University Library Science Alumni Association in 2006, Savitribai Phule Pune University (Formerly University of Pune).

Interview

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please tell me something about your background. Was Doing BLIS after completing BSc your first choice? Any specific reason to choose the LIS profession.

Dr. Meenal Oak: My first choice was to teach Fashion designing or Zoology. In my BSc, I got a high score of 68%. My father wanted me to have a career in library science as he thought that it would suit me due to its holiness and isolated places to work. He took me to show the libraries of Tata Consultancy Services Cuffe Parade, Mumbai; Reserve Bank of India Library, Mumbai; and Dhondumama Sathe Homoeopathic Medical College, Pune. Although I was convinced that the subject had a practical approach and had a wide scope to work but it was difficult for me to leave the thread of my likings and fondness towards pure sciences and fashion designing. Reluctantly, I joined the Department of Library and Information Science, the University of Pune for BLIS course in the year 1993. I found the subjects very dry and I was not able to find them interesting as I strived among the live contents of zoology. I wrote a letter to my father saying that I am coming back home and will take admission to M.Sc. next year. My parents are very dedicated medical professionals and studious scholars. They taught me to not look back at any moment of life and advised me to be patient and be adaptable. I worked hard but the challenges were more for a girl at the age of 20 to stay outside the home for study. Fortunately, I passed BLIS with the distinction and bagged the 3rd position in the entire University. When I applied for admission to MLIS, my name was on the waiting list, as in those days preference was given to working professionals. In the meantime, I joined M.Sc. in the Health Science Department, where Prof Bhushan Patwardhan, the present, Vice-Chairman, University Grants Commission, New Delhi, was HOD. However, destiny had some got plans for me, and I got admission to MLIS and bagged the fifth position in the final examination. Immediately after completion of MLIS, Prof Patwardhan asked to organize the collection of the Health Science Department, and within one month's time, I organized the entire collection with the team of enthusiastic students of the Department. This was my first assignment. In 1995, I joined the Library of Department of Zoology, University of Pune. After 6 months, I joined the College of Education, SNDT University, Pune Branch as a librarian against a leave vacancy of 2 months, and finally, in February 1996 I was offered the post of Librarian at MES’s IMCC. I learned a lot during my previous assignments and I am very thankful to the stalwarts like Prof. Bhushan Patwardhan; Prof. Dileep N. Deobagkar (Former Head, Department of Zoology, University of Pune and Ex. Vice Chancellor Goa University); Dr. S K Patil (Head & the University Librarian Jaykar Library University of Pune); Dr. N B Dahibhate (Former Principal Technical Officer CSIR- NCL, Pune); and Dr S G Mahajan, Former University Librarian, Jaykar Library, Savitribai Phule Pune University for their guidance and support.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: What is your job profile at MES’s Institute of Management and Career Courses (MES’s IMCC)?

Dr. Meenal Oak: Currently, I am working as a Librarian-cum-Associate Professor at the Institute and engaged in developing, leading, organizing, and managing the Library Core and fringe areas, Library functions and services, ICT applications in the library, networking, relationship building, and communication, funds utilization, up-gradation of the library.

When I joined the library of IMCC, it was housed in a small room and was not properly organized. Students didn't follow the library rules and they even stoled the books, the library was not more than a common room. The book suppliers were not ready to supply the books on credit due to unreturned and pending approval memos. I didn't give up and tried to give my level best, and above all, I was ready to face the challenges even at the age of 23. I understood the prevailing library system completely. I applied the participative leadership technique to solve the issues in the library and started informal communication with the library staff, faculty members, and the book suppliers. Creating trust and faith was a major challenge, apart from the technical work of classification, cataloging, and computerization. I used the bench-marking technique to improve the processes of the libraries and did regress planning to achieve the targets. Soon the students and the faculty members started getting effective service and regular access to the library resources. When the users realized that their demands and needs are attended properly, they started following the library rules. The library staff, faculty members, and the complete organization started cooperating. This was the beginning new era of the IMCC library. A regular assessment program was chalked out for the continuous improvement and new targets were set. Today IMCC Library is fully automated and has its own institutional depositary on Dspace. Many projects were initiated, to name a few - "MES Koha Project", setting up of IGNOU Study Center and launching the autonomous programs. Many thanks to MES IMCC Dr. Santosh Deshpande, Director, MES/IMCC Director; Dr. V H Inamdar, Former Director, MES/IMCC and Maharashtra Education Society (MES), Pune, for providing a conducive environment for the smooth functioning at MES.

Apart from the hardcore librarianship, I am also the coordinator of the Distance Learning Center of IGNOU at MES IMCC. I am coordinating activities of the programs such as publicity, communication, and orientation, and I also control and monitor the counseling timetables of all the courses at the center. As an exam superintendent, I have the responsibility to conduct exams of IGNOU for about 4000 learners every 6 months. I am a counselor for the courses Management of Libraries and information centers, ICT in Libraries & Library Automation, and Knowledge Organization.

I am also the coordinator of the MES Koha Project which we initiated in 2018 and which is a successful project now. I am monitoring the entire project, looking after the progress of the work of member libraries, taking care of the financial matters, and handling all the issues and problems of all the member libraries.

I am the also coordinator "SET NET Training Program (Library Science)" and PGDLIMAN at MES. I initiated these programs at MES and I am responsible for the marketing, promotion, and running of these programs.

I also look after the Institute Prospectus, and documents pertaining to Institute history and development.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Do you think students doing LIS courses through correspondence stand equal to those who are pursuing regular LIS programs?

Dr. Meenal Oak: The basic purpose of MHRD, Government of India is to provide education to all, be it be through regular mode or through correspondence or private. Definitely, the distance learning students can stand equal to those students who pursue courses in the regular mode, it is the caliber and the hard work of the individual, not the mode which decides his/her future. Today many, e-learning platforms including SWAYAM are being used by many of the working professionals to complete their educational qualifications for the up gradation and reshaping of their career.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please brief something about MES IMCC’s autonomous program on SET/NET Training LIS professionals.

Dr. Meenal Oak: National Eligibility Test (NET) of the University Grants Commission has become compulsory to get employment in libraries in Universities and Colleges in India. Some states also conduct this exam for state-level recruitment, which is called the State Eligibility Test (SET). It is observed that after getting the MLIS degree, the majority of the aspiring LIS professionals are not able to qualify the SET/NET even after several attempts. In order to help these aspiring LIS professionals to appear for this exam 'MES IMCC’s Autonomous Program on SET/NET Training for LIS professionals was initiated. The main aim of the program is to provide proper guidance to the aspiring LIS professionals and to build up their schedules and help them in timely preparation. The course material is designed and moduled to provide professionals with a “step-by-step” approach to their preparation. Personal interaction between teachers and students in the face-to-face classes helps in building the confidence of the students.

The program was initiated in 2015 and since then it is conducted consistently twice a year. It is a 6 months full-time course conducted on Sundays only (approx 20 Sundays). Till now 7 batches have been successfully completed and 280 aspiring LIS professionals from all over Maharashtra state have been enrolled for the course. LIS professionals working in various universities, and prestigious institutions have also been part of the program. Till now 27 professionals have qualified the SET/NET after completion of the course. I am so happy to share that they are now working as full-fledged college librarians with UGC scales.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Concept of ‘Library Faculty Coffee Club’ sounds innovative, please tell something about it.

Dr. Meenal Oak: It's an innovative idea that was started with an objective for maintaining a communication channel with the faculty members of the institution. Due to so many ongoing activities at the workplace, it was becoming difficult to maintain regular communication with fellow colleagues. Coffee club is initiated as a medium of friendly interaction between the library and faculty within the stipulated time period, where an informal meeting is scheduled, once in a month over a cup of coffee in the library.

It includes

Meeting with club members;
Discussion on the latest academic research & social events and activities;
Discussion on latest publications on the general and on the domain interests;
Gifting one book on general them to the members for channelizing the reading habits more effectively;
Discussions on the distributed title in the next meeting in an informal way.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Why do you think pursuing programs like Post Graduate Diploma in Digital Library Management, Automation and Networking is need of the hour for budding LIS professionals?

Dr. Meenal Oak: I think every aspiring LIS professional should pursue the need-based courses like the one offered by MES (PGDLIMAN) in order to keep pace with the ever-changing scenario of the LIS world. This has become more important due to the inclusion of new technologies at the knowledge centers. The LIS field is application-oriented and needs practical awareness and knowledge of use of the library software, networking and information technology.

These kinds of programs provide a sound footing for the capacity building of the LIS professionals from the technology point of view and make them more efficient to work in their respective libraries. The syllabi included the core installation and implementation and working of the software modules, digitization, networking, and content management techniques theoretically as well as practically in the real-time scenario.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Share some of your experiences as a subject expert for selection of the librarians under the jurisdiction of Savitribai Phule Pune University. What specific skills you looked for while selecting the candidate?

Dr. Meenal Oak: I visited more than a hundred colleges under the jurisdiction of Savitribai Phule Pune University as a subject expert for selection of the librarians. The experience is worthy and through every single visit, I learned a lot. Few observations I made was

LIS professionals need to improve their communication skills and work very hard to have proper soft skills
They are working with perfection but very poor to present the talents
They are sincere but the majority are not ready to take the challenges

The candidates are selected based on eligibility criteria, suitability to the internal environment for example if the college needs a well proficient and talented person for the research center where interaction with post-graduate students is a must, a person with poor soft-skills will not be suitable for the same. The knowledge and attitude, conceptual clarity, skills, and the work done in the previous institutions matter a lot for the selection of the candidate

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Do you really think the kind of seminar, conference, workshops, and webinar now days will help LIS professionals to acquaint themselves to acquire new skills?

Dr. Meenal Oak: Yes, definitely all these are the impacting media and certainly will guide the newer ways to the LIS professionals in pursuing the skills required to handle and manage the knowledge resource centers in this challenging situation and in future also.

It's definitely our outlook, how we are looking at things. When we organize the webinar, seminar, conferences we learn the management and organization skills; when we act as a resource person, certainly we study deeply, and are more focused with regard to a particular topic; and similarly, when we are just attending these programs, it gives us innovative ideas about the current situation of the LIS community. It provides awareness about the newer expectations from us and what needs to upgrade. So with every single aspect, you can pursue newer skills, we have to look at the opportunities hidden in every single challenging situation.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Now a day’s people are shifting from proprietary LMS to open source software like KOHA. However, most of the LIS professionals take help from service providers for the functioning of these open-source LMS. Then why change?

Dr. Meenal Oak: Yes, it's true that the libraries are shifting from proprietary LMS to open-source software. We for MES libraries hub also shifted from proprietary software to Koha. Major advantages for the same are - upgraded version with free of cost, technical feasibility, and simplicity of Koha operations, strong release schedule, common union online catalogue without any additional cost. Though many libraries are appointing the service providers; in spite of that, it's advantageous as it's not exorbitant.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please tell me despite so much implementation of IT in libraries, the reading habit of the students is declining. We the librarians introduced IT to enhance library usage but the picture is the opposite. What is the solution to this problem?

Dr. Meenal Oak: The concept of reading is not limited to only the physical book/document reading! The online reading on withe medium like kindle is a smart way to read books without wasting time. It's true that the physical visits of the students to the library has reduced and that of the faculty members as well! But the online reading of the library e-books and subscribed journals should be counted as a library use.

Further, innovative ways such as the introduction of information commons with the slogan -“What you need, we will provide” as well as the faculty clubs can be initiated for effective use of the library resources. There is a great opportunity to innovate in this area.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Give some tips as to how libraries can improve their Service Quality.

Dr. Meenal Oak: For the service industry, quality revolves totally around the customers’ perceptions and their expectations from the provider. The continuous assessment of service performance is therefore required to get the maximum users’ satisfaction. The academic world is ever-changing and the impact of the internal and external factors is being witnessed tremendously in the current scenario. The libraries attached to the academic organizations are not exceptional for that and are striving hard to render more effective online services to the users than ever before. The need is to identify the requirements in the present situation and match the performance. For that, it’s needed to

Use the periodic assessment policy for the libraries;
Set the newer targets to achieve considering the user needs assessment program results. For example, currently, effective access to online resources, library online catalogue, library web page up-gradation can be some of the programs;
Decide the goals to achieve with the stipulated time period;
Use of techniques such as Activity charts, Ishikawa models, is always recommended;
PDCA cycle is highly effective in achieving the predefined goals;
Set the quality policy with the internal library process to improve the performance;
Work continuously towards assessing and achieving.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Other than being a true LIS professional what are your hobbies? Please also share something funny about you.

Dr. Meenal Oak: Research and writing is my hobby, conducting research study always channelizes your mind.

Few of research publications are:

A research project sponsored by Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) formerly the University of Pune from 2012-2014 on “Assessment of service quality: a case study of Management Institute Libraries in India”
A research project on “Mapping Service Superiority and service Adequacy Gaps: a study of Service quality dimensions in the Libraries of Management Institutes under the jurisdiction of Savitribai Phule Pune University (Pune, Ahmednagar, Nasik)” from 2014-2016.
SDI service: a select study of Management Institutional Libraries
A case study of Networking Management Institute Libraries in India: Issues, Strategies and Policies

I have also authored books for the HSC board textbooks published by BAlbharti, Maharashtra State. It gave me immense pleasure to work for the undergraduates as well to write for them at the state level.

I do writing for pleasure, my few general write-ups and poems are available in the Marathi language on my web-page.

Handwriting analysis is my other hobby, I am not able to devote that much time for the same. It's very interesting to work on that.

I like yoga and exercising like aerobics.

Painting, decorating, and a variety of clothing styles are my favorites.

Chatting and wondering with the family and friends is one thing I like the most.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Your final words…..

Dr. Meenal Oak: I strongly believe that the library professionals are having equivalent or even more caliber and capacity to their counterparts (teachers), only we have to show enough courage to shoulder the responsibility and justify the value to the organization concept which is required these days.

Active interest in the academic profession and willingness is very important for the overall growth of the individual and also for the sustainability of the library science profession.

If you want to know more about Dr. Meenal Oak please visit her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/meenalimcc or webpage: https://sites.google.com/mespune.in/drmeenaloak/home or Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mrs-meenal-oak-1618662b/

(Disclaimer: Contributions of Dr. Meenal Oak in the field of Library and Information Science are phenomenal. On behalf of the entire LIS fraternity and my blog readers, I appreciate madam for the splendid work. The questions on the blog were prepared by me, and answers given by Dr Meenal Oak are as it is posted on the blog. I thank her for taking out time from her busy schedule for this interview. Interacting with professionals like her inspires you to be a better person, provide you with motivation to achieve your goals, empower you to make the changes you need to succeed, and cheer on your success....... Dr. Preeti Sharda)

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: A Celebrity Librarian

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 10:32:00 +0000

Professor Ramesh C. Gaur is presently Dean & Director (Library & Information) & Head-Kala Nidhi Division at Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), New Delhi, Ministry of Culture, Government of India. During the period October 2011-January 2018, he was the University Librarian, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, India. His past assignments include Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), CRRI-CSIR, RIS, New Delhi, Management Development Institute (MDI), and IMT Ghaziabad, etc. A Fulbright Scholar (VT, USA), Prof Gaur has visited 24 countries. Prof Gaur has been honored/received 12 awards in recognition of his exemplary work. Dr. Gaur is the first Indian nominated as Member- International Advisory Committee (IAC) UNESCO Memory of the World (MoW) Programme. He is also a member of the Expert Consultation Committee for setting up of International Centre on Documentary Heritage (ICDH) in South Korea.

He is a member of many other important national and international professional bodies. Important affiliations include Member-Governing Council INFLIBNET, Member of Research Council (RC) for CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Information Resources (NISCAIR), New Delhi (formerly INSDOC), Member-International Consultative Committee on Digital Dunhuang, China, NDLTD Board of Directors, Member of UGC National Committee for Implementation of Submission and Access to Electronic Theses and Dissertations in Universities in India, Member Governing Council-INFLIBNET, Member-National Advisory Board-E-Shodh Sindhu National Consortia, Member of various Committees of International Federations of Library Associations (IFLA), Member Databib Advisory Board, USA.

Prof Gaur is an action figure and, travels around the world for giving lectures and sharing his expertise in the LIS field. He is one of the globally renowned librarians who believe in letting his actions speak louder than words. He is in view that libraries need to align themselves with the changing times and user expectations and works relentlessly towards introducing innovations in the digital world in his library. He feels strongly about digital preservation and understands that archived material is important for today and future research. Prof. Gaur’s contribution to his chosen field has received appreciation and recognition both within India as well as overseas. This is a conversation between Prof Ramesh C Gaur and Dr. Preeti Sharda. This interview is a kind of bio-sketch of Prof Guar. He has very elaborately talked about his personal and professional life.

Interview

1. Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please tell me something about your background. Why did you decide to become a Librarian?

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: I wanted to be a mathematician as I was very good at mathematics, but unfortunately, I got the lowest marks in it and the highest marks in chemistry in class XII. Hence I joined B.Sc (Chemistry Honors) in 1985 in Jamia Millia Islamia University (JMI), New Delhi. After securing First class in B.Sc examinations, I joined M.Sc (Chemistry) at Delhi University in 1988. After a few months, I also got admission in the pioneer batch of Post B.Sc Diploma in Computer Applications in JMI. I had an opportunity to work on a project 'Development of Library Automation Software using Debase III Plus' at the Water and Land Management Institute (Up Govt.) Okhla. During the project work, I closely watched the functioning of a library. One more twist came in my life. I was denied renewal of all route DTC Bus pass. I needed a regular study course to make a bus pass. These reasons forced me to join an Evening course - BLIS at JMI in 1989. Results of both Post B.Sc. Diploma in Computer Applications and BLIS was declared simultaneously. At this point of time, I had to take a final decision about my future, a career in Chemistry or Computer Science or Library and Information Science. I was not keen on a career in the field of chemistry, so for the next six months tried my best in the other two fields. Many offers came in both the fields but destiny took me towards librarianship and ultimately I joined my first job as Assistant Information Officer (Librarian) at Eicher Research Centre, Faridabad on February 22, 1991.

2. Dr. Preeti Sharda: It has been more than a year you joined your present position. What positive changes you have brought at Kalanidhi at Indira Gandhi National Center for the Arts (IGNCA), New Delhi (in the library as well as at the Centre)?

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: After re-joining IGNCA in January 2018, my focus was on restarting from where I left while going on deputation at JNU. This includes the starting of work on the creation of a digital repository, strengthening of a book discussion programme, redesigning of collection development policy, restarting of acquisition of personal collections, Memory of the World Programme, etc. Moreover, by now my foreign engagements also increased because I was nominated as a member of many International Committees. I am also trying to strengthen the 'UNESCO Memory of the World Programme in India'. Under MoW, a project on the Mapping of Archives in India has also been undertaken.

I have been appointed the first Dean of IGNCA. As a Dean, several new academic programmes have been introduced by me. I am also working on various research collaborations with National and International Universities.

3. Dr. Preeti Sharda: You have introduced new Certificate Courses for LIS professionals at IGNCA. Please give details about them.

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: IGNCA has started five Certificate Courses and six new PG Diploma courses within the last two years. Out of these, two courses one on 'Research Methodology' and another on 'Open Access for Library Professionals' is my brainchild. Research Methodology Certificate Course of IGNCA is one of the preferred courses and many faculty of different colleges and universities, Ph.D. students, freelancers, and researchers have joined this course in past. 'Post-Graduate Diploma Course on Digital Library and Data Management' is specifically designed for BLIS & MLIS students with a special focus on training them on emerging Library Tools and Technologies. A Post Graduate Diploma Course in Manuscriptology and Palaeography has also been introduced to impart training on how to preserve and keep ancient scripts alive. This course is very beneficial for Sanskrit students who want to learn ancient scripts such as Pali, Prakrit, Sharda, Brahmi, and Modi, etc.

4. Dr. Preeti Sharda: You worked as the University Librarian, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi before your present engagement. What constructive changes were made at the JNU library during your tenure?

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: I joined JNU on October 11, 2011. After taking a round of library, I start ed meeting every staff of the library. I also met some important university authorities and took feedback about the library. Based on my assessment, I prepared an action plan and my first proposal was to reconstitute the Library Advisor Committee.

I requested Prof. Sopory, Vice-Chancellor, JNU to preside over the Library Advisory Committee meeting. I presented my assessment report and action plan in the meeting. I remember his first words, “Ramesh you go ahead my fill support to you”. He kept his promise and until he was in JNU none of my proposals was turned down. He ensured me full autonomy and financial & administrative support. He had full faith in me and I am glad that I was able to live up to his expectations. In his farewell speech in JNU court meeting he spoke more than 15 minutes about the transformation of Central Library, JNU during his and my tenure. Most significant and constructive changes made at the JNU library during my tenure were:

Development of new AC reading halls, with comfortable furniture and good ambiance. Till now JNU Library is the only Library where more than 400 laptop charging stations are available with the reading tables;
Major renovation work of the Library;
24x7 Reading and Research facility was made available for all;
Cataloging of over 2 lakh Books (Many foreign languages publications and creation of centralized cataloging of all departmental libraries;
Implementing WebOpac facility'
Designed interactive library website using Drupal;
Provided Remote Access facility Using EZproxy;
Provided Web-scale discover services using EDS – JNU was the first Library to do it;
Acquired over 4 Lakhs eBooks;
Subscribed over 35 new online databases;
Weeded-off all old library scrapped material and contributed 16.4 Lakhs in JNU funds;
Got a sanction Rs. 50 Lakhs under CSR from RECL for purchase of Laptops for visually impaired students;
Facilitated in getting a sanction about Rs 30 Lakhs under CSR from BHEL for purchase of a vehicle for persons with disabilities;
Got sponsorship of about one crore for the organizing of conferences and seminars at JNU
Got library racks from IIT Delhi and saved Rs 40 lakhs of JNU;
Got a sanction of 27.5 Lakhs from UGC / INFLIBNET for the digitization of theses and dissertations;
Completed Digitization project by digitizing approx. 22000 Ph.D. theses and m.phil dissertations;
Digitized 7.5 Lakhs Press (Newspaper ) clippings;
Created State of Art facilities for persons with visual impairment;
Institutionalized Barrier-free access to persons with disabilities;
Accessible Toilet;
Installation of fire fighting system;
Created over 600 additional seating capacity in the library;
Filled about 35 vacant positions in Library. All promotions were done on time.

A more detailed report in this regard is available on my Facebook page.

5. Dr. Preeti Sharda: You have undertaken so many assignments. In your 27 years’ professional career, you have published research papers, delivered lectures, authored/edited books, undertake some important projects. If I ask about one accomplishment for which Prof. Ramesh C Gaur will be remembered in the future in LIS fraternity, what is that?

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: There are many such accomplishments which I feel proud of and also believe that these will be remembered in the future by LIS fraternity. I am the first Indian nominated to many International Committees such as the International Advisory Committee of UNESCO Memory of the World Programme, Cultural Heritage, Programme Advisory Committee of IFLA, and many more. Transformation of JNU Library from the traditional one to a world-class library is one of the most accomplished tasks of my professional journey so far. My work at JNU was acclaimed by both JNU Community and LIS Community. I received great respect and recognition for my work from everyone including LIS Professionals in India. My contributions in establishing and highlighting the role of librarians and libraries in plagiarism detection, and avoidance, digitization and digital preservation of cultural heritage, promotion of the concept of Electronic Theses and Dissertations in India, reengineering management applications in libraries, and assistive technologies and support services for persons with various disabilities. I was the founder convenor of Ranganathan Research Circle (RRC) and its Lifetime Trustee within 2 years of joining the LIS profession, and one of the founder members of Management Libraries Network (MANLIBNET), Association of Media Libraries and Archives (AMLA).

6. Dr. Preeti Sharda: You have been nominated for so many awards and facilitation. Your bag includes prestigious awards like ‘IASLIC- S M Ganguly Best Librarian award for the year 2007’; ‘Satkal Young Librarian award for year 2009’; ‘Indian Library Leaders: Award for Professional Excellence-2013 by Satija Research Foundation for Library and Information Science (SRFLIS), India’; ‘Professional Excellence Award 2015 by ADR Publications’; ‘RSC India librarians choice award for “Dynamic Librarian” by Royal Society of Chemistry, 2017’; ‘8th NCPEDP-Mphasis Universal Design Awards 2017 for innovative services to Persons with Disabilities’; Central Government Library Association (CGLA) honoured with Best Library Leader Award., Honoured with India CSR Dr. Velaga Memorial Awards for Innovative Library Services (Leadership) for the year 2019 for the promotion of Library & Information Services and for providing leadership for various Innovations in the field, The “Most Fabulous Global Knowledge Management Leader’’ 2020 award at Global Knowledge Management Congress & Awards | World HRD Congress 2020 | on 15th February 2020 and many more. So, by your understanding, what do you think got you these accolades?

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: For me, the real honour and award is the love and affection of users of libraries and my colleagues wherever I have worked. My users include scientists at CRRI, researchers at RIS, management faculty and students of IMT Ghaziabad and MDI, scientists and researchers at TIFR, scholars and other users at IGNCA and Faculty, students, and researchers of JNU and library staff of all these institutions. When faculty and students of JNU say “We miss you in JNU”, when students and faculty of IMT Ghaziabad remember and acknowledge my contributions even after 20 years of my leaving IMT, when MDI faculty still remember me although my tenure was of just 5 months, I feel grateful. My colleagues started weeping and it was difficult to stop my emotions too, while I was leaving IMT, TIFR, JNU. When my all past bosses say that I performed much better than their expectations, this is the real award for me. My email boxes and memories are full of appreciations received during my past assignments. In my farewell at JNU, Prof. Mahapatra said "in 6+ years of your stay at JNU there was not a single complaint against library or librarian from the faculty, staff or students".
Such is unbelievable in the university like JNU, this is my most remarkable achievement and real honour /award.

7. Dr. Preeti Sharda: You are also a recipient of ‘Turnitin Global Innovation Awards 2017: Honorable Mention Category: Writing with Integrity | Asia’. You started talking about plagiarism very early and today you are one of the most sought-after speakers to talk about plagiarism, its detection and avoidance, and academic integrity in India. How did you get this insight?

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: I do not have any hesitation in claiming that I am the first librarian in India who started sensitizing researchers about plagiarism, detection, and avoidance and talking about the role of the library and librarians in academic and research integrity. In the year 2012, I started various programmes and activities on plagiarism at JNU. I was among the first ones to organize National Workshop on plagiarism. This all started when I analyzed various issues related to plagiarism. I found that these issues are fully matching with domain in Library and Librarians. Librarians are the best person to help researchers in avoiding plagiarism. My work also got recognition from the Ministry of HRD and UGC as I was made a member of the Plagiarism Draft Regulation Committee of UGC. I was the only Librarian in that Committee and always delighted for my contribution in preparing Plagiarism Draft Regulation 2018. (Recently an interview of Prof Gaur was published on Open interview forum regarding his views about Plagiarism Detection Software)

8. Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please share your experience about your chapter in the 3rd edition of Encyclopedia of Library and Information Sciences published by Taylor and Francis, USA.

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: Prof. Krishan Kumar was my teacher at the University of Delhi, invited me to join him to write a chapter for the Encyclopedia of Library and Information Science. I am happy that I was able to live up to his expectations.

9. Dr. Preeti Sharda: You are a member of many committees formed by the Ministry of Culture Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, Government of India, and other bodies. You have also acted as an Expert Member/Examiner/Member of Committee to the various professional bodies and Institutions. Please mention some of the important decisions you have facilitated, which can help the LIS professionals to grow.

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: As I have served/serving over 300 International and National committees in various capacities, there is a long list of such decisions taken on various occasions. Some of the important decisions taken or I was instrumental which may benefits / benefitted Library Professional are as follows: -

In a meeting of the Governing Board of Delhi Public Library, one of the agendas was to change the prerequisite qualification of the post of Director General of Delhi Public Library. The Chairman of the DPL Board wanted DG post should be open to all. Even a person without a LIS background should be made eligible to apply for the post. I stood against it in the meeting and compelled the Board members to keep DG Post reserved for a Library Science professional only.
For many years I have been part of various Selection Committees and played an acknowledgeable role in the recruitment of 1000s of professionals. During the selection process, I always ensure that the best person should be selected as I believe that human investment is the most important investment and one right or wrong decision can change the fate of the respective institution.
As a member of the UGC Plagiarism Draft Regulation Committee, I was able to convince the Committee members to set a definite role of Libraries and Librarians in creating awareness about plagiarism and avoiding it.
Even in the International bodies like UNESCO, IFLA, etc, my contributions are well-received and well- recognized. As a delighted Indian, I have always try to keep India’s flag high.

10. Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please share your experience about being the first Indian member of the International Advisory Committee UNESCO Memory of the World (MoW) Programme and a member of UNESCO International Centre for Documentary Heritage (ICDH).

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: I first Indian to be nominated as an Expert Member of the Cultural Heritage Programme Advisory Committee of the International Federation of Library Association (IFLA) (https://www.ifla.org/node/10284). The Committee consists of two Experts Members and six ex-officio members of the IFLA Sections, such as Preservation and Conservation, rare books and special collection, indigenous matters, audiovisual and multimedia sections, and representatives of IFLA Governing Body, including IFLA Secretary-General as Voting Member. Aims and objectives of the Committee are to advise the IFLA Governing Body on the strategy, priorities, and activities of the global cultural heritage. It also helps in the formation of policy development and advocacy in areas related to global cultural heritage. It also helps in the implementation of IFLA principles of engagement of library-related activities of disaster risk reduction and times of conflicts, crises, or cultural disaster. This Committee also develops collaborative partnerships with UNESCO PERSIST project and other UNESCO programmes, ICCROM, and other international organizations working on the preservation of, and access to cultural heritage.

Prior to this, in January 2018, I was appointed Member of the International Advisory Committee (IAC) of the UNESCO Memory of World (MoW) Programme (https://en.unesco.org/programme/mow/iac). The UNESCO MoW helps in the preservation of documentary heritage by inscribing to International Register, Regional Register, and National Registers. I represent Asia Pacific Region in this Committee and I am the only Indian to be indicted as Member of this prestigious Committee so far. Besides this, I have also got an opportunity to act as National Coordinator for UNESCO Expert Groups on the MoW programme in India. I am also responsible for the implementation of this programme under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, as the IGNCA has been made the nodal agency for the same in India.

I am fortunate enough for having served as an Expert Member in the International Committee on Setting up of UNESCO International Centre of Documentary Heritage in South Korea (http://www.unescoicdh.org/eng/main.php). As an Expert Member of the International Expert Consultative Committee of Digital Dunhuang, I was invited to China to help in their project and, I made significant contributions between 2016-2019.

11. Dr. Preeti Sharda: You were the first one who introduced to ETDs in 2003 at Virginia Tech as a Fulbright Scholar. You carried forward and organized the first-ever ETD event in India i.e. National Seminar on ‘Managing Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs)' on 22-23 March 2012. Please share your experience.

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: The Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (NDLTD) is an international organization dedicated to promoting the adoption, creation, use, dissemination, and preservation of Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs). Global ETD Search (http://search.ndltd.org/) of NDLTD is one of the largest Union Catalogue of Theses and Dissertations. Approximately five million records are available in it.

I was introduced to ETDs/NDLTD by its founder, Prof. Edward A. Fox during my visit as a Fulbright Scholar Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, the USA in the year 2003. I attended a few meetings of NDLTD at the University of Tennessee, Washington with Prof. Fox.

I lost all connection with ETDs/NDLTD for about eight years after I returned to India. After joining IGNCA in 2005, I was made a part of a committee preparing a Draft Regulation for the preservation of theses, and later on, I was also nominated as a member of the National Committee for Implementation of Electronic Theses and Dissertations constituted by University Grants Commission.

I got reconnected with ETDs/NDLTD as the University Librarian of JNU in 2011. I was nominated for the INFLIBNET Committee constituted for the Implementation of Electronic Theses and Dissertations. With the support of INFLIBNET, I organized the first-ever National Conference on Managing Electronic Theses and Dissertations in 2012 at JNU. Dr. Vinod Chachra one of the Board of Directors of NDLTD was the Chief Guest at the Seminar. He requested me to join the NDLTD Board of Directors which I happily agreed upon. In August 2013 I become one of the NDLTD Board of Directors (http://www.ndltd.org/directory/board-of-directors and member- Executive, membership, award, and communication). Later in the year 2016, I was nominated as Chair of the NDLTD Conference Committee (http://www.ndltd.org/a/ndltd.org/ndltd/directory/committees-and-working-groups/conferences-committee).

After Prof Shalini Urs, I am the second Indian to be part of NDLTD. Being a member I have attended various NDLTD Board Meetings and Conferences, presented invited talks/ conducted workshops or/ and chaired sessions in following ETD Conferences: -

ETD 2013 Conference held at the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong. https://lib.hku.hk/etd2013/about.html
ETD 2014 Conference held at the University of Leicester, UK. https://www2.le.ac.uk/library/etd2014
ETD 2015 Conference was hosted by me at JNU during November 2015. http://www.etd2015india.in/ It was one of the most successful ETD Conferences and was attended by 400 participants.
ETD 2016 Conference was held University of Lily, France. https://etd2016.sciencesconf.org/
ETD 2018 Conference held at the National Central Library of Taiwan in Taiwan. https://etd2018.ncl.edu.tw/en/
ETD 2019 Conference held at Porto University in Portugal. http://etd2019.upt.pt/

The next ETD 2020 Conference is scheduled for November 8-10 at United Arab Emirates University at Abu Dhabi, UAE.

My Contributions to ETDs and Shodhganga e-Thesis Repository https://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/ and ETDs at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) New Delhi:

I contributed immensely to the creation, promotion, and making open access of ETDs including formulations of guidelines and policies. Since 2005, I was part of all UGC and INFLIBNET Committees constituted from time to time. I and Dr Jagdish Arora were two common names in all the Committees. Later on, remarkable contributions have been made by the team comprising Dr. Jagdish Arora and Mr. Manoj K in the creation of Shodhganga.

During my professional career concerning the ETDs, I contributed most as a JNU Librarian. I digitized over 22000 Theses and Dissertations there and made them online and accessible on the Intranet. All PhDs were also uploaded at Shodhganga. During my tenure at JNU, it was for the first time that University uploaded all theses and dissertations to the portal. When I signed an agreement with INFLIBNET, only a few thousands of e-theses were uploaded. For many years JNU remained at the top with the largest number of e-theses on Shodhganga. I also helped JNU for the development of e-Theses Tracking systems, Plagiarism Guidelines, and various other research support services including training and awareness workshops in writing, plagiarism detection, and reference management tools.

I have also helped several University Libraries and also guided many Librarians for the digitization of theses and Dissertations.

My heartfelt thanks to my mentor and guide Prof Edward A Fox and other members of the NDLTD Board for their support and guidance. Thanks to Dr. Jagdish Arora former Director INFLIBNET, Mr. Pawan Agarwal, IAS, and then JS in UGC and Prof. S K Sopory for all support in the implementation of ETDs at JNU.

12. Dr. Preeti Sharda: You have chosen a responsible field of conservation and preservation. How can other Lis professionals come forward and take up such assignments?

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: It is important to preserve our Cultural Heritage properly. Libraries are responsible for the preservation of documentary heritage. Library Professionals need to understand how to handle and take care of this kind of library material. Moreover, now digital preservation has become an important issue which needs the attention of every Library Professionals.

13. Dr. Preeti Sharda: One of the things that we hear is that it’s the digital age, you can get access to information anywhere, on your phone, you don’t need a library and you don’t need a librarian in the way that you might have a generation or two generations ago. But, so what makes libraries not only important but part of those digital changes and the technological changes, not sort of here despite them?

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: I call such people Library illiterate. Internet is not Library; the Internet is not even a digital Library to deal with information overload digital revolution. A Librarian is the best person who provides the most relevant information to the right users in the quest time. Moreover, not everyone can afford to acquire books and journals. Libraries are needed now more than ever.

14. Dr. Preeti Sharda: You are really a big thinker and library services promoter. You are an inspiration for many of us. Please tell us who or what inspires you in everyday life?

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: I am a self-motivated person but I am a human being too. I also cry when I am tensed, feel happy when somebody appreciates, get angry when somebody makes nonsense, and laughs on jokes. I got inspired by different people at different times. Undoubtedly, the father of Library Science, late Dr. S.R. Ranganathan always inspire me. I got inspired from people with whom I have worked, to name a few: Prof. S. K. Sopory, former Vice-Chancellor, JNU; late Mr. Sharat Kumar, former Director, IMT, Ghaziabad; Dr. Kapila Vatsyayan, Founder of IGNCA; late Shri C V Subbarao, former Librarian & Founder President RRC; late Shri S P Gupta my ex-boss in CRRI; Dr. V R Panchamukhi, former DG RIS; my teachers Shri S Ansari, Prof. Krishna Kumar; former Prime Ministers Shri Atal Bihari Bajpai and Dr. Manmohan Singh; former President late Dr. Abdul Kalam; Hon. Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi. Besides these great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chand Bose, Ravindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekanand, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and many more have always inspired me. I am inspired by the life and works of many successful industrialists. I try to learn from everyone whomsoever comes in my contact. The current generation of Librarians also inspires me a lot.

15. Dr. Preeti Sharda: What is something most of your co-workers don’t know about you? Do you get time off from your busy schedule? What are your other interests/hobbies?

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: I am a workaholic and a passionate professional. I always think about libraries, academics, research, technologies, and other areas of my activities. My schedule is so hectic, I hardly have any free time. Whenever I traveling, I try to read to conceive some innovative ideas, try to learn new technologies; try to finish some pending works, etc. You have witnessed how long it took to finish this interview. My life is just like an open book, no hidden secrets, so difficult to recall anything which my co-workers are not aware of. I love to go on holiday with my family, watching good movies, and visiting relatives whenever I am free. Even in this period of pandemic and lockdown, my day is full of events, meetings, and other activities. Everyone close to me always complains that I am too busy.

16. Dr. Preeti Sharda: Now that you have reached the peak of your career, have you set yourself any other goals for the future?

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: Currently as a Professor and Dean at IGNCA I am in the pay band 15. I and Prof. P.K. Rath from Mizoram University are only two LIS Professionals in India having this status. I have done enough in the transformation of Libraries. I am an academic person by heart and have a great interest in research. I have a desire to guide or develop a World Class Academic and Research Institution. I have excellent ideas, great knowledge, and vast experience. Although IGNCA is one of the best institutions in the field of Art and Culture and also has great potential but due to financial constraints, I am unable to take many initiatives which I am capable of. Somewhere I am disappointed that my knowledge and talent are not being properly utilized in my country. I consider myself best to guide to develop National level digital repository projects, running or setting up of a world-class academic and research institution. I say most of the time, people have a very closed mindset about librarians. In a University, a Professor from any subject background maybe Hindi, English, can become Vice-Chancellor but a Librarian who is also a professor is always kept away from higher academic positions. For the last 5 years, I have delivered over 500 talks/ guest lecturers to Teachers, Ph.D. Scholars, students of various universities from different disciplines on research related topics. At IGNCA as Dean, I am playing a crucial role in running 8 PG diploma courses and 5 certificate courses. My contributions are always recognized and well appreciated by all. I consider myself competent to head any academic and research institution in this country. If I get this opportunity I will certainly prove myself and I will do my best in enhancing the quality of research and academic programmes of that institution.

IGNCA building is just opposite to National Archives of India. I can assure that if my ideas of digitally transforming the current National Archives of India from traditional to a modern one are implemented, it will definitely become at par with the World Class National Archives. My other concern is the current situation of Library Science Schools in India. The current course curriculum in these schools doesn't match with the actual needs of the libraries. the curriculum does not cover current issues, emerging library technologies, and new developments in the field. I wish I can do something in this area also. I have visited over a dozen National Libraries of the world to give guidance. Surprisingly in my own Ministry, I have never been consulted for the improvement of the National Library of India. I am part of many international and national digital library initiatives, but it is very unfortunate that in my own system, I was never consulted for projects like the National Virtual Library of India (NVLI). When I was in JNU, I was part of all committees and consultation groups related to libraries but my current ministry never felt that I can be helpful in the modernization of libraries under the Ministry of Culture. Once a think tank on Library matters was constituted under the Ministry of Culture but not a single meeting was conducted. I am very happy with my achievements but have a desire to work more for improving the status of libraries and librarians in India in particular and across the globe in general.

17. Dr. Preeti Sharda: How does one become a celebrity librarian? I mean, you certainly are.

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: We cannot achieve anything without setting up a goal. I started my career with Eicher Research & Development Centre as an Assistant Information Officer. I left it and joined a very Junior Position in Central Road Research Institute (CRRI-CSIR) Library on almost half of the salary that I was getting in Eicher. I feel that at the beginning of one’s career, guidance and training from seniors play a very important role. Kind of organization and my role over there were the most important criteria for me whenever I switched over from one organization to another. I always love to accept challenges. Career planning is very important. In any field of work, you see the recognition or celebrity status is achieved with sheer dedication, hard work, and most importantly passion towards work.

There is no substitute for hard work and sincerity. Some of the tips are: be honest, 24/7 working attitude, regular knowledge updation of emerging technologies, good interpersonal skills, research aptitude, respect for others, focused approach, taking criticism positively, not worrying of what people say, not afraid of failures, belief in your destiny, believing every dream does not become true, never give up, how to get work done from your bosses and understanding that fluttering does not always work, think before speak, control your anger, have a happy and smiling face even when you are in pain, never take revenge, forgive people, balance in family and work for life-your family first, and above all a good human being and act as a friend, philosopher, and guide to your users. These may be some of the essential qualities for success. I do not know I am a celebrity librarian or not but one thing I know people around me like me, respect me, thousands of young professionals not just from the LIS field but also from other fields follow me. There may be some who do not like me due to some professional or personal reasons, but they also respect my work and my contributions made in creating a new Identity for librarians in India. Wherever I have worked it may be JNU, IMT, MDI, CRRI, or IGNCA I have changed the mindset of people towards libraries and librarians. I have shown them how a good librarian can bring changes to the system and also in enhancing the visibility and quality of research and academic activities.

Recently Prof Gaur has written about 20 memories on his Facebook page covering his entire 29 years professional journey. Read it if you really want to become a successful librarian.

More information about Prof Gaur can be found at Librarianship Studies & Information Technology Facebook Page, Twitter Page, Linkedin Page

(Disclaimer: Contributions of Prof Ramesh C Gaur in the field of Library and Information Science are phenomenal. On behalf of the entire LIS fraternity and my blog readers, I appreciate sir for the splendid work. I thank Prof Gaur for taking out time from his busy schedule for this interview. Interacting with professionals like him inspire you to be a better person, provide you with motivation to achieve your goals, empower you to make the changes you need to succeed, and cheer on your success....... Dr Preeti Sharda)

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: A Resourceful Librarian

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Fri, 24 Jan 2020 00:48:00 +0000

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: A Resourceful Librarian

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh is presently working as a Deputy Librarian in A.C. Joshi Library, Panjab University, Chandigarh from 2007. Dr. Neeraj is a very hard-working, dedicated Goal-oriented and highly motivated librarian. He is an enthusiastic and resourceful professional and an asset to AC Joshi Library. Due to his caliber and performance excellence, he has been awarded the Prestigious Commonwealth Professional Fellowship two times.

Dr. Neeraj is a prolific writer who penned down more than thirty research papers in the International/National peer-reviewed journals and conferences/seminars. Due to his expertise and knowledge, he has acted as a resource person in various national workshops/conferences/ training programs organized by various institutions. He is also teaching PGDLAN, BLIS courses at USOL, PU, Academic Counsellor of IGNOU regional center at Panjab University, Chandigarh.

Interview

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please tell me something about your background.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: I am the only son of Mr. Shambhu Prasad Singh. Born in Barman, Madhya Pradesh I had my early education there. My father was a landlord as well as a well-educated man. He was MA, M.Lib. from Dr. Harisingh Gour University, Sagar University. He worked as Librarian in SRTNES PG College, Barman for many years and later retired from the same college as Principal. My mother was a housewife. I have two sisters who are married and well settled, one in Delhi and the other in the US. My father was a great educationist and made sure that all his children were well educated and postgraduates (especially in Science).

My schooling, as well as graduation, was done from Barman. In 2001, I did my M.Sc. in Chemistry from Rani Durgawati University, Jabalpur. I did my B.Lib.Sc. in 2003 and M.Lib.Sc. in 2004 from Delhi University. I completed my Ph.D. on the topic “Radio Frequency Identification Technology Applications in Library and Information Centres: A case study of Northern India” in 2014 from Panjab University, Chandigarh. I joined Panjab University, Chandigarh as Assistant Librarian in 2007 and am now promoted to Deputy Librarian. My wife is a housewife and I have two sons.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Despite doing M.Sc. (Chemistry), what made you decide to become a librarian?

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: I did M.Sc in Chemistry in the year 2001 but was not much interested in taking up a career in the field. I had some friends in Delhi who were preparing for competitive examinations. I told my father that I want to go to Delhi to try my luck. I shifted to Delhi in 2001 there I started preparing and appearing in various competitive exams of UPSC, Bank PO, etc. My father was keen that I should do a govt. job.

One of those days my roommate saw an advertisement for the Delhi University library science course. He also introduced me to the Librarian of Ramjas College, Delhi who inspired me to take admission to a library science course. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I was also inspired by my father who was already a professional librarian. That set the course of my profession. I did B.Lib.Sc. and M.Lib.Sc. from Delhi University in 2003 and 2004 respectively. I cleared UGC NET in the first attempt in 2004 and entered the profession. This education in the field culminated 10 years later when I did my Ph.D. in 2014 from Panjab University, Chandigarh. However, learning is still continuing.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Give a brief about your journey from Delhi to Chandigarh.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: I started my career in the field of libraries in 2004 after my post-graduation in Library Science from Delhi University. My first experience was as a library trainee at India International Centre, New Delhi in 2004 for 2 months. Then I had a short stint as a temporary Library Assistant in the library of Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India, New Delhi. In 2005 I joined as Librarian in Awadh Public Charitable Trust affiliated with GGSIP (New Delhi) that has three institutions under its wing- one each of Physiotherapy, B.Ed. and IT. Here I gained a lot of experience as I set up a new library from scratch which was the central library catering to all the three institutions. I made the library fully computerized and digital. I worked here for 14 months. After this, I had short stints at various institutions like JIMS, New Delhi for 6 months, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Gurgaon for 3 months.

I got a good experience of working in different institutions but now I wanted a regular and steady job. I applied in Panjab University, Chandigarh in 2007 for Assistant Librarian opening, appeared for the interview, got selected and joined on 16th March 2007. It was a long journey but a satisfying one.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: What is your contribution to AC Joshi Library, Panjab University Chandigarh?

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: I joined the A.C. Joshi Library in 2007 and have been working here for the last 12 years. In these 12 years, I have seen a lot of changes in the library and have infact been a part of the growth of the library. I have worked in the Periodicals section for a long time. To regulate the budget and subscription of the print journals and later the e-resources was a part of my duty. Optimum and proper utilization of the budget, identifying the needs of the researchers and subscribing to the e-resources accordingly and making sure they are utilized to the maximum was my concern always. RFID technology was introduced in the library in the year2010. I was a member of the committee constituted by the Vice-Chancellor for implementing RFID technology in which I played a significant role. I have closely worked with the LMS vendors and was actively involved in the automation of the periodicals section using SLIM Library management software.

Another major project taken up was that of complete digitization of PU theses available in the A.C. Joshi Library in the year 2014. I was again a member of the Committee constituted by the Vice-Chancellor for this purpose. I was promoted to Deputy Librarian in the year 2019 and since then I have been looking after the Reader Services of the library. Active engagement with the readers and orienting them towards the library, getting their feedback to improve the services of the library, promoting the usage of e-resources, educating the research scholars about plagiarism and doing ethical research, etc. are my areas of work.

Not only in the library, but I also have been involved in the services of the university at large. I was appointed coordinator of the PU digitization project by the registrar. After the project has been completed all the official records of PU will be accessible through Intranet. I am the Nodal officer for URKUND antiplagiarism software for Panjab University and am helping teachers and research scholars regarding the creation of records and creating awareness for plagiarism.

I have designed and developed Panjab University Chemistry Portal which can be accessed through our library website (http://old.puchd.ac.in/library/chemistry.html) for which I was decorated with the prestigious Best service award 2009 presented by Vice-Chancellor, Panjab University. Again, in the year 2011, a portal on Handling of Hazardous Materials was designed by me for which Vice-chancellor presented me an award on the occasion of the Republic Day ceremony, 26 January 2011.

Prof R C Sobti, former VC Panjab University, Chandigarh presenting the award on the occasion of Republic Day ceremony, 26 January 2011

Honored by the Honourable, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Arun Grover, Panjab University, on the Teachers' Day celebration 2013 at PU

Other than my contribution to AC Joshi Library I would also like to highlight some of my professional achievements

My first book "RFID for Libraries: a practical approach" published by the renowned Indian publisher Ess Ess Publications, New Delhi in 2019. The book in-depth deals with the application and implementation of RFID technology in libraries. As it is based on the lessons learned during the actual process of implementation, the book provides practical solutions to libraries that are planning to introduce the technology. It also describes NFC, the latest technology in the field. Overall, it shall be of use to the librarians in planning their budget and successfully completing the project to benefit their institutions.

The Panjab University Coffee Table Book, in which I had a significant contribution, was released by Mr. Sunil Arora, Chief Election Commissioner of India, Ms. Mia Yen, Consul General of Canada In India, Prof Raj Kumar, Honourable, Vice-Chancellor, Panjab University, Prof. Shankarji Jha, Dean of University Instruction, PU, Prof Deepti Gupta, Dean of Alumni Relations, PU on the occasion of PU Annual Global Alumni Meet 2019. I had the honor of sharing the dais with the dignitaries.

My research articles on Google Scholar have reached 130 citations.

Recognizing my expertise and knowledge on the subject I has acted as a resource person in various national workshops/conferences/ training programmes organized by various institutions, i.e. CMC, Vellore, Bennet University, Greater Noida, NITTTR, Chandigarh, UGC Academic Staff College, PU, SPD-RUSA, Chandigarh, Zonal Institute of Education and training KVS, Chandigarh, Navodaya Leadership Institute, Chandigarh, Kurukshetra University, etc.
I have also been teaching PGDLAN, BLIS courses at USOL, PU, and MLIS, PGDLAN courses at IGNOU regional center, Panjab University, Chandigarh since 2009.
As a part of the Commonwealth Professional Fellowship Programme, I visited many academic, special and national Libraries across London, Manchester, Cambridge, and Scotland.
I was invited in 2015 by the University of California, Santa Cruz, USA to present a paper in the International Conference on “E-learning and Innovative Pedagogies” from 2-3 Nov 2015.
Drafted PU research journals Ethics policy from the recommendations of the RPC members which was approved by the Vice-Chancellor.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: You were awarded the Prestigious Commonwealth Professional Fellowship twice in 2012 and in 2017 at the University of East London, London, UK. Please share some of your experiences?

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: Commonwealth Professional Fellowships are offered by the CSC for citizens of developing Commonwealth countries. These fellowships are funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID), to contribute to the UK’s international development aims and wider overseas interests, supporting excellence in UK higher education, and sustaining the principles of the Commonwealth. This fellowship had given me a lifetime opportunity, where I learned several novel things and also had the opportunity to meet leading library and information science professionals in the UK and discussed the challenges libraries are facing in the UK. The fellowship program developed my leadership & management skills in the implementation of new library technologies and improved me beyond my expectations. I am the only LIS professional in India who got this rare opportunity of having been selected for this fellowship twice i.e. in 2012 and again in 2017.

I have shared my experiences of 2012 fellowship at<https://neerajlib.wordpress.com/>

and 2017 at<https://neerajcwfblog.wordpress.com/workshops/>

I would like all those interested in knowing my experiences at UK Fellowship to visit my blog where I have shared all day to day my experiences.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please tell something about the International course on ICT from the University of East London, London recognized by the British Computer Society, London, the UK in 2012.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: is a worldwide recognized, leading computer skills and computer literacy certification programme. It provides students with the IT skills and abilities needed to build on existing knowledge, motivate further learning, and improve their employability in a wide range of fields and industries. It is accredited by the Chartered Institute of IT (BCS) as an ITQ and is classed as a flexible qualification. To date, more than 14 million people have engaged with the ECDL program, in over 100 countries, through their network of over 24,000 ECDL Accredited Test Centres (ATCs).

The ECDL program defines the skills and competencies necessary to use a computer and common computer applications. It offers a wide range of modules including Computer Essentials, Word Processing, and IT Security. Candidates take tests in the modules which are most relevant to their educational and professional requirements, thereby creating their ECDL Profile. Whether in school, university or in the workplace, ECDL offers the skills you need to succeed.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Give some details of the Chemistry Portal designed and developed by you.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: Providing the right information to the right user at the right time is a major challenge for libraries. In recent years, digital resources are growing and developing very fast creating challenges in information searching, service provision, and resource discovery. Today's user cannot efficiently find the information they need from resources on various platforms and from different vendors. They do not know how to access full-text articles from various online databases. They complain that they often feel lost among disparate resource lists and guides. Universities and other research organizations are providing significant financial support to libraries. A large proportion of this is going into the subscription of thousands of online resources each year, such as online databases, e-journals, and e-books, but their usage is relatively low. Users do understand the reliability and quality of library resources and prefer to use them only if they can find them. However, the complexity of information structures and the poor design of many library web sites make it difficult for users to discover this wealth of resources. Most university students say that they use the internet for information searching more than the library, yet university teachers notice that the students' work has deteriorated in quality with the use of the web and librarians note that the students unknowingly bypass important sources available to them through academic libraries.

To give a bird's eye view of various resources in the field of chemistry, a single-window service was conceptualized in the form of a chemistry portal. It aims to provide information related to chemistry and its allied subjects, through a single user interface and to access a wide variety of electronic resources in the field subscribed to by the university library and also other scholarly information sources that are available in full text on the web. Searching and filtering the sources available on the web and then judging what will prove useful to chemistry students was, of course, a very tedious job. Interviews were conducted with the faculty members and the students of the chemistry department at Panjab University, Chandigarh (India). After discussions with them, it was observed that most of the users are not using the online resources that are being subscribed to by the university library and they are also not aware of the scholarly information available on the internet, which is published by reputable organizations, universities, publishers, etc. After the interviews, the following observations were made:

the computer literacy level of these academics is medium to high;
their internet/web literacy level is low to medium;
they are mostly using e-mail and web search engines including Yahoo! and Google;
the university library's online resources are not well known; and
students do not know how to access e-resources.

Due to this and to fill up the gap between information providers and information users a well-structured Chemistry Portal was designed by me (www.library.puchd.ac.in/chemistry.html), which was nominated for the PCQUEST best information technology implementation award in 2009.

https://www.pcquest.com/panjab-university-web-portal-chemistry/

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Share your involvement for the module on Reference Management Software’s in the online MOOCs course available through SWAYAM, MHRD portal.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: I have prepared and presented one module on Reference Management Software’s in the online MOOCs course in Pedagogical Innovations & Research Methodology prepared by Guru Jambheswar University of Science and Technology, Hisar which is available through SWAYAM, MHRD portal.

<https://swayam.gov.in/nd2_arp19_ap72/preview>

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Do you think students pursuing a degree through correspondence can stand equivalent to the students doing regular studies? I mean can they deliver the same.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: In my view, the correspondence courses are self-learning courses and if the student is dedicated and motivated in his/her field, he/she can achieve the same height as a regular student. In the long run and once they enter the profession, it is knowledge and not the degree that matters. Given the right opportunity, they can perform equally well in the practical field.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Give your views on the role of libraries in the rankings of higher institutions.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: While it is difficult to measure the value academic library brings in institutional rankings, it is clear that the library plays an important role in both research and teaching. In the ranking there is no specific parameter which gives weightage to the libraries, however, libraries can play a very important role in influencing the ranking of any institution. Here are some ways how libraries today make a difference to the community they serve. The academic library is a reflection of the level of the institution it serves, it can enhance the ranking of the institution by encouraging more quality research, enhancing the institution’s academic reputation, and increase research needs awareness. The library has a very significant role in the ranking of academic institutions because all the academic activities of institutions are directly or indirectly related to the library. It is a pity that the quality of the academic library is not considered for the institutional ranking. The iconographic power of a college or university library expresses a purpose not just to collect, but also to organize, preserve, and make knowledge accessible.

Delivering invited talk on the role of libraries in the rankings of higher institutions at Bennet University, Greater Noida, Sept 23, 2019

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Do you think plagiarism is really a serious offense and paraphrasing is not as there is no way to check the paraphrasing?

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: I am of the view that Paraphrasing without crediting the original author is considered plagiarism and therefore has serious consequences. To avoid plagiarism, one must always cite the source in the correct citation format; otherwise, you are presenting something as your own work, even though it's not. You should use just an idea but express it with your own words and format. However, if you do credit the original author correctly using an in-text citation or footnote citation and include the full source in the reference list, then you do not commit plagiarism. Plagramme.com is an advanced plagiarism software that can recognize paraphrased plagiarism. Once you enter your text, you will be able to see instant plagiarism check results. Lines that appear to be copied from another text as well as paraphrased ones will be highlighted.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Tell us what you feel are your biggest strengths and your biggest weaknesses.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: I think my biggest strength is being focused on. Once I am convinced, I am totally focused on the task at hand. I try to gather all the relevant information from all possible sources and after assessing the pros and cons I like to tackle the task. The latest developments in the field of LIS and Information Technology fascinate me. I like to keep up to date on this front.

My biggest weakness is not being able to deal with dual personality persons. Also, I don’t like people not committed to their jobs and who do not understand easily.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Name five adjectives that describe yourself.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: Focused, Committed, Passionate, Progressive, Self-made

Dr. Preeti Sharda: What are your professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five years?

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: My professional goal is to be at a position in the profession where I can implement my progressive ideas, the ideas that can benefit the library as well as the institution at large. In five years I would like to see myself in a position of control and at the topmost position in the profession. There is so much to be done for the profession and libraries that if not started soon the libraries will lag behind in many areas.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: I personally know you since 2007 and always seen a serious side of your personality, do Dr. Neeraj K Singh has a funny side also?

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: If you meet me professionally you shall always see my serious side. I am very professional in my profession. I open up only in my friends' circle and we have a lot of fun light moments together. If you want to see my funny side you shall have to enter my friends’ circle which is not easy. I go every morning to play Badminton with my friends where we have a lot of fun and that invigorates me for the serious business of the rest of the day.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Your favorite pass time…….

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: I like watching Tik Tok videos, listening to music and watching cricket and movies. I also like spending time with my kids which energizes me a lot.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Your final comments……

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: I would like to share that though I did not plan to enter the profession initially, once I joined the profession I am totally dedicated to it. I find there is a lot of scope in librarianship. The librarians can expand their operations and can associate with many other professions. The profession of librarianship is never going to die, we just need to upgrade and diversify.

(It was a great honor to take an interview with a dedicated, very humble and a very hardworking professional like Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh. Thank you so much, Dr. Neeraj, for sparing time from your busy schedule. The interview can also be read at https://www.ranganathansociety.org/dr-neeraj-kumar-singh/).

Dr Prabhjot Kaur: Public Librarian with a Distinctive and Dynamic Role

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 10:23:00 +0000

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur Sandhu, presently working as District Librarian at District Library Amritsar has over two and half decades of experience working in different types of libraries of Punjab. She is a Public Librarian with a Distinctive and Dynamic Role. She has been actively working for promoting reading habits and the use of public libraries among natives. She is making lots of effort to make the District Library Amritsar a very inviting place by organizing various activities and programmes from time to time. Dr. Prabhjot is very active in the LIS field and has written a number of research articles for national and international conferences/ workshops/ seminars, training and has delivered invited lectures and motivational talks and has organized a number of workshops for library professionals. She has more than 25 research papers to her credit and has authored a book in the library and information science.

Dr Prabhjot Kaur has represented International Emerging Library Innovators (INELI) of India and South Asia at 'Global INELI Libraries Meet' at Seattle (America) on an invitation of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and MSSRF. She was also a member of the 'Indian Public Library Movement Impact Group'- a monitoring body which was to observe changes in the public libraries of India. A vice president of Punjab College Librarians Association, she is also a life member of the Indian Librarian Association and other national and regional professional bodies.

Recognizing her selfless services towards the community, the Punjabi Samvaad (NGO) honoured her with Women active for social cause Award 2017 on International Women’s Day 2017, Naari Chetna Manch (NGO) honoured her for her zeal, self-motivation, dedication and un-ending commitment to work for society. She is bestowed by Award of Honour on 72nd Independence Day (2018) by Finance Minister, S.Manpreet Singh Badal for delivering the best public library services. Sri Guru Ram Dass Avatar Purab Committee Amritsar on its Golden jubilee honoured her with the ‘Special Service Award 2018’ for selflessly working towards society. Literary forum- Punjabi Sabiyachar Sath te Sahit Santha honoured her on International Women’s Day 2019 and also Rotary Club conferred her with the “Influential Women’s Award 2019 for serving the people through the public library.

Interview

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Tell us about your background. Also, tell what led you to libraries?

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: You know, I was destined to be a librarian. I got two post-graduation degrees one in English and another one in Library and Information Science (LIS) and Ph.D. in LIS from Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar. My journey as a librarian started when--after getting my masters in English; I happened to visit the library science department to meet my uncle who was then Head of the department, he suggested me to do BLIS rather than wasting one year waiting for the admission in M.Phil (English). I reluctantly joined, however, later on, I finished MLIS securing the second position in the university. While I was working on my MLIS dissertation, I was offered the post of librarian in Sacred Heart Senior Secondary School for Girls where I worked for two years. Deciding to pursue research in library science, I made a quit my job and joined the Department of Library Science and Information Science, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar as a research scholar. However, I was not able to continue my research work as I was on my family's way. I was completely bedridden for six months, thereafter I was entirely occupied with my premature baby girl. Pre and post pregnancy kept me away from my profession for a while. To overcome this agony, my husband advised me to take up to do B.Ed. I completed my B. Ed. degree from Khalsa College of Education where I later also worked as the librarian. While applying for a job at Army School, Cantonment, I submitted applications for two posts; for an English teacher and for the post of librarian. As destined, I was offered the post of the school librarian and this is how my journey as librarian resumed.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: What was your career path before coming to the District Library Amritsar?

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: After my selection by Punjab Public Service Commission in 1997, my first joining as a college librarian was at Government College Karamsar, District Ludhiana. Every day commuting from Amritsar to Karamsar was arduous, tiring which at the initial stage I did for my little daughter who had already suffered a lot due to her premature birth. While traveling, many times, I fell sick which made tough to travel every day. For a few months, I shared a room with my colleague at Ludhiana. Later, I was transferred to Government College Bhulath, District Kapurthala, first librarian to join that college since its opening. The college had no library as such, few books in almirahs that’s it. It was to start from the beginning, laboratory tables were altered and used fora library. My one and half year stay in the college was totally devoted to establishing a library. Thereafter I was transferred to District Public Library Amritsar.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: You said “A smart city needs smart libraries, especially public libraries that have the potential of becoming community development hubs. I want to build up the district library one step at a time, until we reach our goal,” What efforts you have put in for this?

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: It is very much clear that public libraries are people’s universities and the main role of public libraries is to keep the public well informed and provide information freely and easily. Libraries have to serve beyond books especially public libraries which are to serve the community by fulfilling their information needs they medium they choose and also provide solutions to them. It has to be relevant and useful free space for life to the communities in the present scenario where patrons have access to the flow of information and build their skills needed in the globalized world.

So with an aim to establish a connection between library and community, I started organizing activities at the library with the support of individuals and institutions. Various activities were organized in the thematic category of culture and heritage such as mother’s day was celebrated, in the category of health, Meditation sessions were held for both school students and adults to learn the knack of focusing. Apart from this, Seminars on reading habits and health awareness were also conducted. Another unique aspect of this library is that it conducted many live health sessions (IPLM, MSSRF) covering a broad range of topics like nutrition and diet, etc. In the category of personnel development also this library has not failed to leave a mark. They have contributed immensely by conducting storytelling and drawing competitions and have also tried to impart knowledge about the environment and gender sensitivity among the young

Amritsar is one of the cities to be developed as a smart city, taking this opportunity, I submitted a proposal of a smart public library to then CEO of Amritsar Smart City Project Ltd.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please share your experience as a writer.

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: As a writer, I had done several paper presentations and attended several conferences and seminars at national and international levels.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: You were a pioneer in establishing a library in Jail. Please tell me something about how you were involved in this project and how you actually established the library?

It was a call from district administration to contribute books for the new library. There were no guidelines to give away books from the district library to open up a library. It was an initiative to start with a new library which I do not want to let it go. So I gave a call to the community to donate books for opening new library for inmates of jail for which I got an overwhelming response. The library was able to donate more than thousands of books on various subjects for the new library. I also trained an inmate for accessioning the collection and for issuing process.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: How you decided to put in your efforts to promote National Reading Month 2019. Please share the experience and activities during this month?

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: Being an INELI innovator, I had an opportunity to be part of this mission since its inception in 2017. The library was already organizing various activities for the community,by joining this mission I was more focused on promoting reading habit among all. I find, it is very important to motivate people to read as the sole aim of libraries is not a mere collection but to encourage usage of resources of the libraries which will make libraries alive, a knowledge hub. Public library functioning is not limited to mere circulation of books for academics or for research,its much more than this. Through this mission, I am able to motivate people for leisure reading which a total miss these days. During reading month -19th June -18th July, focus is to organize reading related activities not only in the district library but also outside the library. In 2019, library organized activity promoting reading everyday during the reading month, many times two or more activities within a day in the library and in schools. Such activities have brought the library in publicity as the knowledge hub.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please share your experience at International Emerging Library Innovators (INELI) of India?

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: Before being part of INELI programme, I had ideas to improve library services but was implementing these ideas with uncertainty and not very confidently as I am doing now after joining MSSRF’s programme- INELI of India and South Asia. I am implementing ideas to improve library services and connect community with library. As INELIAN, I am working selflessly to make my library a community knowledge center. I am actively engaged with the community to create awareness that public libraries can successfully function beyond books.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: You were a part of South Asia at Global INELI Libraries Meet at Seattle (America) on an invitation of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and MSSRF. Please provide a brief on it.

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: It was a wonderful learning and a great honor for me to represent the country and INELIANS. Global INELI libraries convening organized by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation held at its Headquarter, Seattle, America from 28th February to 2nd March 2018. In this meet, participants from the other 7 regional chapters of the world learned innovative library services of outstanding public libraries. This meet brought together public librarians of various countries to share their experiences of demonstrating diverse need-based knowledge services for their communities through public libraries, across their countries. It was a big platform for me to share my journey as an innovator with the other seven regional INELI innovators. The First time, I had an opportunity to share my journey as an INELI with the help of igniting presentation which was appreciated by all. In words of Nancy J. Annabel, director of the project----

Dr. Preeti Sharda: You are also a member of the Indian Public Library Movement Impact Group- a monitoring body which observes changes in the public libraries of India. Do you think your presence has made a difference?

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: It was a great opportunity to be a member of the IPLM Impact group. We had many brainstorming sessions to bring momentum to this movement across the country, to involve others and to improve the working of public libraries. Sadly this movement is not picking up due to some unknown issues.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Describe your experience as a member of the National Organising Committee of P.N. Panikar and Reading Mission 2022-a a mission initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to connect 300 million people with reading.

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: Recognizing the importance of Reading and its influence in human development Honourable Prime minister Mr.Nadrendra Modi ji launched on 22nd National Reading Day- reading month celebrations at Kochi on 17th June 2017 and requested P.N.Panickar foundation to Initiate a National Level movement to promote reading habits with an emphasis of digital reading. For 23rd National Reading Day- Reading Month celebration 2018, a meeting was held on 21st May 2018 at the constitution Club, New Delhi

As one of the members of the National Organizing committee from 19 states, I attended for planning the proceeding of Reading mission for the year 2018. The Committee was chaired by P.J.Kurien, Honourable Deputy Chairman of Panickar foundation and the RajyaSabha, Baby Sahib, Afrose Ahmad, Ministry of Water Resource Mr.BalaGopal, Shadrack, Ms.Meenakshilekhi, Member Parliament from New Delhi, AnibanSarma, National program officer, Unesco officials. All the special invitees promised to extend their full support and cooperation for the Reading Mission and also suggested to a co-related Reading mission with the Environment., each participant provided ways to achieve the target in the four years and ways to organize the reading mission. This year, NitiAayog notified to chief sectaries of all states to organize activities related to reading

Dr. Preeti Sharda: How Punjab College Librarians Association helping the librarians of Punjab?

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: Since its establishment, PCLA has been working very actively for the librarians of Punjab. College librarians in Punjab had got parity of status and scale because of the untiring efforts of PCLA. I thank my seniors for their contribution to the upliftment of profession in the state and always seek their guidance as vice president of PCLA 2019-20.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: You are the recipient of ‘Women Active for Social Cause Award 2017’, ‘Special Service Award 2018’, “Influential Women’s Award 2019’ and you have been honored many times for serving the people through the public library. Do these awards have motivated you to work harder?

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: In my opinion, awards bestowed are recognization of one’s sincere efforts that one put in one’s work. I am sure nobody does it only for an award. Awards bring along more responsibility, to perform, act better than earlier .to outdo oneself. Definitely, it’s one’s commitment towards its work and oneself that gets the award . It is a kind of recognition one gets in the form of award.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Library an engine of change - promoting reading, Elaborate.

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: “Libraries change lives”. In my opinion, whosoever enters the library is not the same when he leaves it. He is enriched with more information, knowledge when he leaves the library. I would quote an example of ex -watchman of the library who was illiterate when he joined his duty. He learned reading and writing after coming to the library and he gives credit to the library for his education. He shared that every day he saw people reading newspapers, magazines, etc in the library which inspired him to do the same. It may seem an ordinary incident but has a deep message. If the library is part of your routine, it brings change and promotes reading too.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: You message to students and literature lovers.

Dr. Prabhjot Kaur: My message to everyone - ‘Begin your journey as a reader from a personal library and reach out to your public library’. Both libraries help one to be a better human and a citizen.

(It was a great honour to take an interview with a dedicated, very humble and a very hardworking professional like Dr. Prabhjot Kaur. Thank you so much, Dr. Prabhjot, for sparing time from your busy schedule. The interview can also be read at https://www.ranganathansociety.org/dr-prabhjot-kaur/)

Dr Jaspal Kaur: A Multi-Dimensional Personality

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 00:14:00 +0000

A Journey from a Vocalist to a Shooter/Archer to a Librarian to a Principal of the College

Dr Jaspal Kaur is presently officiating Principal at Dev Samaj College for Women, Sector 45B, Chandigarh. She is also heading the library of the college. She has immensely contributed to growth and development of librarianship with her enthusiasm, self-motivation, dedication and un-ending commitment. She is a tall figure competing with younger generation to be with times and ahead of times related to various aspects of modern librarianship and technology developments. Recognizing her work, the SATKAL Foundation bestowed on her “National Woman Librarian” award in the year 2013.

She has to her credit 4 edited books and contributed over 30 papers in national and international conferences. She has a long association with Chandigarh Librarians’ Association (CLA), currently she is the General Secretary of CLA and also President of COLNI, a representative body of library associations of North India.

Dr Jaspal Kaur has the hunger to do more learning and seeks to empower her colleagues and tries to let them bring out their best for the growth and development of their respective libraries to serve the college community better with advanced technologies. Dr Jaspal Kaur proved to be role model for many women librarians in Chandigarh and other parts of North India. She has projected herself as a multi-dimensional personality - as an anchor, a singer, a sportsperson, a multi-tasker and a committed professional.

Interview

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please tell something about your background.

Dr Jaspal Kaur: I was born and brought up in an army family based at Patiala. I had my education from school to university in Chandigarh. I was interested in sports and music vocal. My interest in sports in the college and university gave me an opportunity to be recognised as National player in shooting and Archery.

Dr Preeti Sharda: During your student years, you were a Shooter and an Archer and you also participated in a number of sports events at the National Level, but you choose a career in Library Science? Why?

Dr Jaspal Kaur: I was keenly interested in following either Music, Sports and get into the army due to my involvement in NCC activities during my graduation. However my father’s advised me down to settle in life, so I had to choose librarianship, as he was of the view that this profession was good opportunity for the women.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Under your supervision, how the library of Dev Samaj College for Women (DSCW) has evolved?

Dr Jaspal Kaur: I did accept the challenge of setting up the library for Dev Samaj College for Women, Sector 45B, Chandigarh. The Library, which was housed in the basement, had to struggle in relocating its collection due to heavy rains and floods in 1995. During all these years, I have been looking for ways and means to improve organizing the library and providing library & information services to the college community.

During 2001, the college library received grant of Rs 2.0 lakhs from MPLADS for purchase of books and improving the collection development. Again, in 2003, with the efforts of dedication and commitment, the Library received Rs 2.5 lakhs exclusively for automation activities of the Library. With untiring efforts, the Library was reorganized and totally automated within a span of six months. Today, the College Library is the first one among the College Libraries in Chandigarh to barcode all its collection. With added facilities and modern technology, I have been quite active in organizing the Library related competitions for the benefit of college students and seminars for the benefit of fellow professionals and thus furthering the cause of Librarianship.

The College Library has been the first in the city to digitize its News Clippings and the college had the honor to host a UGC Sponsored National seminar on “Managing College Libraries in the Digital Environment: Opportunities and Challenges” on 03-04 August 2007 No college library in Chandigarh has so far organized a library seminar with UGC sponsorship.

I have launched various innovative services and programmes aimed at spreading book culture among the college community. To mention a few like, music therapy, career counselling and many of these were the first of their kind not only in the college but also among the city colleges.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You have set an example to officiate as principal of the college for more than a period of two years. Was this journey easy?

Dr Jaspal Kaur: It was not easy for me as a college librarian to officiate as a principal of one of the prestigious girls’ college – Dev Samaj College for Women – in Chandigarh. It was indeed a great challenge for me to understand nitty-gritty of college administration. However, I am proud to say that I had done a lot with the support of the college management further development of the college to be at par with other colleges in the city, like starting of new courses, streamlining of college administration, organizing major events, which got attention and recognition of the university like Inter college Youth festival. This made me more motivated and dedicated for overall development and strengthening of the college. This gave me satisfaction that the library skills that I possess helped me to successfully managing the college as the officiating principal more than a year. I admit that the librarians can also be good administrators.

Dr Preeti Sharda: What changes you brought at Dev Samaj College for Women (DSCW) as the head of the institution?

Dr Jaspal Kaur: As officiating principal of the college and the librarian, I was actively involved in streamlining the following:

Completion of new hostel building with modern amenities.
Construction of new Administrative blocks which also houses new and spacious library.
First private college library in Chandigarh to get RFID system.
Strengthening of the staff working, regularly communicating with the parents of the students to monitor their academic progress.
Created an environment in which all the academic staff contributed to the growth and development of the students that ensured increase in the pass percentage, participation in cultural and academic activities.
Organized Zonal Youth Festival

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please tell us about your contributions towards Chandigarh Librarians’ Association (CLA).

Dr Jaspal Kaur: I have been closely associated with Chandigarh Librarians’ Association (CLA) since the beginning of my career and have served the Association in various positions. I was the President of the Association from 2001 to 2005. Presently, I am General Secretary of the Association.

Being a woman and with my committed responsibilities at home, I have been able to serve the professional body, like CLA for the last 20 years in various positions, for the growth and development of professional colleagues, especially the women professionals. Having associated with CLA as Secretary, President, and in various other capacities, I had proved to be a mentor to a number of young professionals, who turn up to me for professional advice.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You decided to do your Doctorate degree very late in career. Why so?

Dr Jaspal Kaur: Even at the age of 57, when other women librarians prefer to settle down in their lives and dedicate themselves to their respective families, I have the hunger to do more learning and seeks to empower her colleagues and tries to let them bring out their best for the growth and development of their respective libraries to serve the college community better with advanced technologies. Due to my personal and professional commitment I was not able to pursue may PhD earlier but when I got the opportunity I did it.

Dr Preeti Sharda: How you initiated the digital library of Dev Samaj Literature?

Dr Jaspal Kaur: I was asked by our college management to setup a library of Dev Samaj Society at its headquarters in Chandigarh. During the course of setting up of the library of the society, I had the opportunity to scan very valuable literature in the form of books, artefacts, out of print books, manuscripts etc. During the discussions with the management while setting up the library it was decided to make this valuable literature available to the outside world as this wealth of information could be accessible. Towards this end, we digitized all the literature of Dev Samaj and was uploaded on its website so that anyone can access this valuable information of Dev Samaj without any cost.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please brief about how you relate to the NGO, Sadhna Society.

Dr Jaspal Kaur: As I am passionate about serving the people and I always wanted to help the people specially the special children. What moved me to associate with the Sadhna Sadan Society was my experience with my best friend’s daughter who is a special child and the time, commitment, dedication, affection that my friend showed for her daughter was quite touching for me. Once I volunteered during their sports meets, functions and I decided to serve special children.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Foundation of such a great career requires a genuine mentor. Provide a brief introduction of some of your mentors?

Dr Jaspal Kaur: During the beginning of my career as librarian, I wanted to do different things in the library. I attended one of the events organized by Chandigarh Librarians Association and I was so impressed and motivated by the activities that Chandigarh Librarians Association was promoting the libraries and library profession at that point of time and I enthusiastically joined as member of CLA. I had the privileged and opportunity to discuss the issues related to the profession and status of the College libraries in Chandigarh with Mr. I B Verma who was then General Secretary of CLA. Campaigning on reading habits by CLA and in particular, the leadership of Mr. I B Verma provided me an opportunity to experience and exposure on promoting the libraries in the city. This further helped me to grow professionally and to take up issues related to librarians respective to their pay scales and status. Mr. I B Verma helped me to grow independently and professionally as a librarian

I also give credit to Dr. P.V.Rao who was Chandigarh Libraries Consortium coordinator for his support for technological initiatives in my library. With his help, I was able to develop an automated library and modernise my college library.

The trust of my college management particularly the chairman of the college Sh Nirmal Singh Dhillon and Secretary of the college Dr. Agnese Dhillon, made me more committed, dedicated to continue to give my best. It helped me to go up to the position of Officiating Principal of the college. I always value the learning from them, which ultimately helped me as a person.
I will always be grateful to Professor Jagtar Singh, Head, DLIS, Panjabi Univeristy for his support and kindness. It would be impossible to count all the ways that he has helped me in my career. He has been always a good mentor and guides me on the right path.

Dr Preeti Sharda: If you had a single piece of advice for an academic librarian, what would you say?

Dr Jaspal Kaur: As a woman librarian, I had often observed that most of the girls who join this profession are very brilliant and can do wonders for the growth and development of the profession. Unfortunately, due to various reasons their capacities remained hidden. Therefore, my advice to all the woman librarian would be to keep doing their best for the profession and don’t stop under any circumstances to grow personally and professionally I would further advise them to think positive and grab every opportunity that come on their way.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Your final thoughts…..

Dr Jaspal Kaur: The librarianship provides best opportunities for the woman in a number of ways like stability, personality development, knowledgeable person and education.

(Thank you Dr Jaspal Kaur for sparing time for the interview. You have done great things on both fronts i.e. a College Librarian and a Head of the Institution. A big salute for all your efforts. All the best for your future endeavors.)

Dr Akhtar Parvez: A Self-Possessed and Resourceful Librarian

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Mon, 16 Sep 2019 23:31:00 +0000

Dr. Akhtar Parvez is University Librarian at Maulana Azad National Urdu University, (MANUU). Before joining MANUU he headed the library of the prestigious Indian Institute of Management Indore. He has about 30 years of professional experience of working in prestigious institutions, both in government and private sector, including National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), The American Center-USIS-New Delhi, DELNET, India International Centre and the leading credit rating agency, ICRA.

Dr. Parvez has authored one book, edited 11books/conference proceedings and has contributed 17 papers in journals and books. He is Managing Editor of Journal of Library Management; Member,Editorial Board, GYANKOSH: The Journal of Library and Information Management and International Research; and, Journal of Library and Information Science published by King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Besides these, he held several important positions including Chairperson, IIM Indore Website Committee (2013-2016), first Appellate Authority on RTI Matters, IIM Indore (2014 to 2016), Editor, IIM Indore Quarterly Newsletter (2012 to 2016), Member, Institutional Academic Integrity Panel, MANUU (2019- ), and so on. He is recipient of the AIMS International-IRMA Outstanding Management Librarian Award given by Association of Indian Management Scholars 2016, SRFLIS India Library Leaders: Promising Professional Award 2013, ILA-Promoter Award 2002, Best Young Librarian Award 2015 of Indore Division Library Association, VishwaLaxmi Best Management Librarian Award by INMANTEC Institutions, etc.

Dr. Parvez is an efficient and effective information manager and is very energetic library professional who also involves himself in various other professional activities. He is truly a knowledge repository with ability to go in to the minutest details of the tasks that are assigned to him. He leads by example and works diligently and with curiosity to explore new avenues for the betterment of the organisation.

Interview

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please tell something about your background. Also, tell whether you are in LIS profession by chance or by choice?

Dr Akhtar Parvez: I come from a middle-class family, born and brought up in Delhi. I did my library science graduation from Jamia Millia Islamia and PhD. from the University of Delhi. I wanted to become a Chartered Accountant and like many other people; I did not join the LIS profession by choice. My father passed away quite early when I was in the first year of Bachelor of Commerce. Being the eldest son, I had greater responsibilities, I even started thinking of discontinuing my studies and joining my father’s business. However, my mother did not allow this. After completing my graduation in 1987, I was looking for a one-year professional course which could get me a job quickly, this is why I joined BLIS in Jamia. Though I didn’t join this profession by choice, I love my job and I am very proud of it. So, basically, it is because of my mother that I could do this course!

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please share your journey from the American Center to MANUU.

Dr Akhtar Parvez: I am very happy and satisfied whatever little I could achieve in the profession. Let me share some of my experiences with you. During my library science course, I did one-month training at the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) in May 1988 under Mr. Joseph Sebastian, Librarian, NCAER. During my Library Science course (1987-88 batch), we were taken to the American Center Library (ACL), USIS, New Delhi, for an education tour (around Jan-Feb 1988). I found the ACL a great library and wished if I could get a chance to work there. After a few weeks of our visit, I sent an application for the internship to Ms. Heera Kapasi, the then Library Director, and, fortunately I was selected for 8-months internship programme at the ACL. The internship helped me all my life and is helping me even now. Apart from a clear understanding of library science principles, I was trained for discipline, hard work, sense of equality, self-help and so on.

I used to be a very shy person and my first boss, Ms. Heera Kapasi realised it quite early. She used to frequently call me in her office and repeatedly ask me 'why don't you speak, Akhtar, what is the problem with you, why don't you join some speaking classes'. I used to quietly listen to all this and promised to her every time that I will start speaking, but interestingly, to her disappointment, it never happened during my internship of 8 months at the ACL. I have no words to thank her for everything she did for me.

There was no looking back after this. I joined DELNET on contractual basis as its first employee in February 1989. DELNET (initially a project of NISSAT) was operating from Indian International Center (IIC). I was assigned the job of retro-conversion of books of IIC library. In addition to this, I was supposed to train the staff of various libraries situated in Delhi in the use of UNESCO CDS/ISIS software and CCF (Common Communication Format). After a couple of years of my stay at IIC, I witnessed the arrival of email services. To promote email service in the libraries of Delhi, NISSAT provided a good number of modems to DELNET and I was asked to train the librarians of Delhi in the use of email services. When I got an offer from Jamia Millia Islamia for the position of Semi-Professional Assistant, Dr. H.K. Kaul did not allow me to leave and he absorbed me at the IIC on a higher position i.e. Professional Assistant in 1991. DELNET/IIC experience was highly enriching and satisfying. However, in 1995, I started thinking of changing my job and in July 1995, I joined the Investment Information Credit Rating Agency of India (ICRA) as a full-fledged librarian on a very high salary. For me, ICRA proved an excellent workplace, both, in terms of the assignments undertaken by me and also financially. I spent almost 16 years at ICRA and got a chance to work with some of the finest human beings including Mr. P.K. Choudhury, Managing Director; Mr. D.N. Ghosh, Chairman (who is also the former chairman of State Bank of India, Phillips, L&T, etc.), Mr. Saumitra Chaudhuri (former Member of the Planning Commission and PM’s Economic Advisory Council during UPA-1 and UPA-2) and Professor Deepak Nayyar, former Vice-Chancellor, University of Delhi.

In 2010-11, a strange feeling developed in me of working in a premier management institution of the country. Luckily, Librarian position was advertised by IIM Indore in January 2011 and I got selected, it was like a dream come true. Since ICRA was a good paymaster, joining IIM Indore at a lower salary (more than half of ICRA’s salary) was a very big decision and that was one reason which took for me almost five months to decide about the joining. Finally, I joined IIM Indore in July 2011 where I got exposed to some of the finest resources in the world.

In October 2016, I got an invitation to deliver a lecture during a Refresher Course at the Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Hyderabad which finally led to my joining at this University in January 2017. Leaving my IIM Indore colleagues was very painful, my farewell was so emotional that I will never forget that all my life. Had I known that my colleagues had so much respect and love for me (who did not do anything special for them), I would not have left IIM Indore. I am very happy to note that all the library trainees who worked with me at IIMI are doing very well in their career, a bright future awaits them.

During my professional journey starting in 1988, I witnessed several lows and highs in my career. I always looked at the positive side of the coin leaving the negativity behind. Throughout my career, I gave more importance to team-work and made my colleagues feel that their work was as important as mine. Taking people along is very challenging, but this is something which makes you a matured leader. Staying in the news brings popularity but making your colleagues feel happy about what they do, is the key to taking your organizations to the next level.

Dr Preeti Sharda: What are the noticeable changes in the library of Maulana Azad National Urdu University after January 2017?

Dr Akhtar Parvez: many university libraries in India, Maulana Azad National Urdu University library (named as Saiyid Hamid Library) had huge potential for improvement in every area in making the library a better place for library users.

There were a lot of challenges starting from library services, processes, managing human resources, etc. In a couple of months of my joining, I started focusing on some basic issues including training of library staff, improving the quality of catalogue records, developing process of acquisition of books, record keeping, user services, and so on. The biggest complaint from students and faculty were that they were not able to locate books on bookshelves. The major reason for this complaint was that the record-keeping (classification, cataloguing, shelving, etc.) was not up to the mark. So, we decided to improve the quality of catalogue records. My dedicated team of library staff started editing the catalogue records by physically taking every single book out from the shelf and checking the same for the correctness of bibliographic records.

In 2018, we migrated to KOHA from NewGenLib and it is heartening to note that not a single record/field got lost while migrating the data to KOHA software.

By making the best use of technology and especially the use of MS Office Excel, the complete process of book acquisition was transformed resulting in a significant reduction in the time taken for processing of books. In this interview, it would not be possible for me to explain how the transformation took place.

Ascertaining loss of books in a library is a very small outcome of any physical stock verification exercise. The major benefit of stock verification exercise is the maintenance of catalogue records. Let me very humbly say that none of the Indian libraries which I know follow the process what we did for conducting the stock verification. Despite the fact that we are supposed to carry out sample stock verification (as per the GFR 2017 guidelines), we carried out three complete stock verification in 2017, 2018 and 2019. The credit for all this, goes to all my library staff.

There were other small steps like more sitting area for students, extended library hours, regular interaction with students and faculty, faster processing of newly acquired books, etc. which witnessed a significant increase in the use of the library by MANUU community. The circulation figure rose by 70-80% compared to the previous year i.e. 2017. However, this is just the beginning, we need to do more for our users and society.

Dr Preeti Sharda: What differences found between the working in the libraries of Maulana Azad National Urdu University and IIM, Indore?

Dr Akhtar Parvez: This is indeed very interesting and difficult question. Handling IIM Indore library was far less challenging than MANUU in terms of services, HR, finances, etc. Like all other established first-generation IIMs, money is never an issue and we could buy anything which was considered important by the faculty or the Librarian. On the other hand, finances are always scarce in universities, hence, one has to be very careful about the product to be purchased/subscribed. Managing a small number of staff is always easier in IIMs compared to universities. In IIMs, we have well-trained staff whereas the same is not true for people working in university libraries. At IIM Indore, I was supposed to manage one library whereas, being the Nodal Officer of all MANUU libraries, I am supposed to look after a few departmental libraries in MANUU and libraries of satellite campuses of the university. At present, there are 12 satellite campuses located in various cities of the country.

I feel that there is a sea difference in working at IIMs and Universities with regard to the kind of completely different exposures one gets in these institutions. Both have their positives and negatives and I am one of the very few fortunate library professionals who got exposed to various kinds of institutions ranging from the High Commission, private sector, autonomous bodies to the government sector.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please elaborate on your experience about Moot Court Session on “Copyrights and Anti-Plagiarism Vs Fair and Open Access”.

Dr Akhtar Parvez: I am thankful to late Dr. S. Venkadesan of ISB, Hyderabad who invited me to participate in a moot court type session of an international conference on the topic Copyright and Anti-Plagiarism vs Fair and Open Access. It not only proved to be a great learning experience but was also very entertaining. Venky was the accused of copyright infringement and we all were lawyers. I never knew that Venky was such a lively person. At the end of the session, the so-called jury pronounced him guilty of copyright infringement. His passing away in May 2018 was a great loss to the profession. During my train journey from Delhi to ISB Chandigarh to participate in the discussion, I read the whole judgment, Oxford University Press, Cambridge University Press vs Rameshwari Photocopy Services of 2016. I also read related newspaper reports and editorials on this issue. I feel that the judgment does not give license to library professionals or library users to photocopy books or other materials as has been propagated by some of the teachers and librarians. The Hon. High Court judgment is in a particular context. An editorial published in the Indian Express on October 14, 2016, argued that the ruling in the case reflected the inability of Indian courts to integrate legal outcomes with robust business models and even suggested that the recent verdict suffered from a deeper problem i.e., a serious lack of vision. Hence, I am of the opinion that academic institutions should interpret the judgment in the right spirit and should not consider the court judgment as a license to violate the prevalent copyright and intellectual property norms. However, I am happy to note that the publishers (Oxford University Press, Cambridge University Press, UK; Cambridge University Press India Pvt. Ltd.; Taylor & Francis Group, UK; and, Taylor & Francis Books India Pvt. Ltd) decided to withdraw the case against Rameshwari Photocopy from selling photocopies of parts of their books to students as they believed that it was not correct to engage in a legal battle with their stakeholders.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You served as a member of the six members committee of the Indian Library Association on IFLA Project for Translation of Public Libraries Guidelines in 18 Indian Languages. Please tell something about that.

Dr Akhtar Parvez: Oh, that was long back when I was Treasurer of the Indian Library Association (ILA) during the period 2002-2004 & 2004-07. ILA got a project from IFLA for the translation of Public Libraries Guidelines in 18 Indian languages. My role was very limited in the project and all of us at ILA were basically coordinating with various senior librarians and teachers of LIS who contributed immensely in the translation work.

Dr Preeti Sharda: “Akhtar sir sharing a rare moment with the legendary immortal soul: Dr. Kalam”. Please describe this moment in your words.

Dr Akhtar Parvez: It is extremely difficult for me to express my feelings about my brief interaction with Kalam Sahab at IIM Indore in 2012. I never thought that there will be a time in my life when I will be able to meet someone who is an ideal for every Indian citizen including me. It was not even like a dream come true. In our brief interaction, he asked me so many questions about the library and; I believe that I was able to give him satisfactory answers. India will always miss this great soul.

Dr Preeti Sharda: In LIS field so many awards have come up. Rather it has become a give and take a job. Please comment.

Dr Akhtar Parvez: You are absolutely right. In every conference we find that awards are given, not one but many awards to make people happy. I genuinely feel that if we continue giving awards to so many people who do not have any significant contribution to the profession, nobody will value such awards. And, it has started showing up. However, it is still not too late, we should introspect

Dr Preeti Sharda: You have served as general secretary of MANLIBNET for many years. This professional body has initiated several activities including offering international travel grant to library professionals. How its functioning different form other LIS associations.

Dr Akhtar Parvez: MANLIBNET was started in the year 2000 and let me acknowledge that all the members of Executive Council in different tenures played their role in making this body a success. Initiated by late Shri Ashok Jambhekar, former Librarian, IIM Ahmedabad, MANLIBNET has matured as one of the most professional LIS associations today. With regard to your question as to how it is different from other bodies, I would like to say that all our awards/recognitions (International Travel Grant, Best Librarian Award, Best Paper Award, etc.) are given only to deserving candidates. Secondly, we truly work on no profit no loss basis and our aim is to contribute to the profession and not to make profit out of MANLIBNET’s activities. Our Librarians Development Programmes (LDPs) are unique programmes of MANLIBNET with an objective of training those librarians who work in remote areas.

Dr Preeti Sharda: How important are the Refresher Course for LIS professionals?

Dr Akhtar Parvez: Extremely important in my opinion provided that the participants are serious about learning and organizers ensure that they are doing justice to the process of learning by inviting learned teachers/librarians to deliver the content. Unfortunately, some UGC-HRDCs focus more on discipline than the content, there needs to be proper balance of both.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Among your friends, you are known for your patience and persistence, goodness and calmness, positivity and happiness. Comment.

Dr Akhtar Parvez: I am very thankful to my friends and well-wishers for their kindness. I do not want take the risk of naming them as I may miss out to mention some of them. I value them a lot and they know it.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please tell how some innovations can be brought in LIS profession.

Dr Akhtar Parvez: There is a huge scope for bringing innovations in libraries for improving user services. Innovative processes in every section of the library starting with Acquisition, Cataloguing, Circulation, etc. can bring in efficiency in our libraries. I always say that good libraries are those which develop innovative processes and are process driven, and not those which are dependent on librarians and library staff. I am and will keep propagating to my professional friends that developing innovative processes leads to user empowerment.

Dr Preeti Sharda: What are your views with regard to the unethical practices by LIS professionals?

Dr Akhtar Parvez: Unfortunately, we have given up all the values our parents and teachers inculcated in us. Every now and then we hear about corrupt practices people follow in every profession. Apart from financial corruption, in my opinion, If I am not doing the job that has been assigned to me (for which I am paid for) is also corruption.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Any suggestion for upcoming librarians and your final thoughts

Dr Akhtar Parvez: Honesty, humbleness, commitment and dedication to the profession and organisations we work for, will make us good human beings, and of course, good librarians. There are no shortcuts to success and wisdom. Make libraries process driven and not person driven. Never forget that the library user is the King and libraries are service organisations.

I take this opportunity to thank Dr. Mohammad Aslam Parvaiz, Vice-Chancellor, MANUU; Prof Rishikesha Krishnan, IIM Bangalore; Dr. N. Ravichandran, former Director, IIM Indore; Mr. D.N. Ghosh, former Chairman, ICRA; Mr. P.K. Choudhury, former Group CEO, ICRA; Dr. H. K. Kaul; Prof SP Singh; Ms. Heera Kapasi; Prof Shahabuddin Ansari and Prof Khalid Kamal Faruqi who contributed to my personal and professional development all these years. My wife and children have always been very supportive of all my decisions I took in my career.

I also take this opportunity to thank you, Madam for your support during the whole interview process and for making me so comfortable.

Please accept my sincerest thanks and best wishes to you and your family.

(It was a great honour to take interview of a dedicated, very humble and a very hardworking professional like Dr. Akhtar Parvez. Thank you so much, Dr. Parvez, for sparing time from your busy schedule).

Dr Badan Barman: A Professional with Innovative Vision

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Sat, 13 Jul 2019 18:26:00 +0000

Interviewer: Dr. Preeti Sharda

Dr. Badan Barman, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Library and Information Science, Gauhati University is rendering his excellent service for the upliftment of the library profession throughout India by his valuable contributions. He is very hardworking and a dedicated professional. He is widely known in India and abroad in the field of Library and Information Science for innovative use of web technologies in the field.

His popular websites include “LIS Links” (http://www.lislinks.com), “Free Online CBSE UGC NET Guide Book” (http://www.netugc.com), etc. His LIS Links project was included in the 200 Tech Success Stories compiled by the PC Quest magazine, June 2010. The LIS Links project able to receive “Jury Special Mention” award in the category of “Best Usages of ICT in Education and Learning” in the E-North East Award 2011 held at Kohima, Nagaland (India). It also received “Jury Special Mention” award in the category of Advocacy & Empowerment in the North East Social Impact Award 2015 held at NEDFi House, Guwahati, Assam (India) on 28th August 2015.

Dr. Badan Barman is BSc (Botany) from Guwahati College with 15th Position in 2003, MLISc from the Department of Library and Information Science, Gauhati University with 1st position in 2005. He was awarded Ph.D. in Library and Information Science by Gauhati University in the year 2011 for his thesis “Web Resources in Library and Information Science: A Managerial Approach” under the guideship of Professor Narendra Lahkar. He completed one Major Research Project on “Application of Information Communication Technologies in Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University: A Road Ahead” jointly with Dr. Arupjyoti Choudhury and Dr. Ankuran Dutta. He completed two Minor Research Projects entitled “Open Access E-Journal Portal of KKHSOU” and “Old Examination Question Papers of KKHSOU: Making it Accessible to the Learners”. The first edition of his book “Library and Information Science: UGC-NET Guide” was sold out within one year of its release and the “Library and Information Science: UGC-NET Guide”, 2nd Revised and Enlarged Edition (with objective type questions and answers) of the book was sold out within two years’ time from publication.

He also compiled and self-published “Directory of Library and Information Science Teachers in India” in the year 2016.

He was recently Felicitated for his contributions towards LIS Profession by the Ranganathan Society for Social Welfare and Library Development (RSSWLD) at the Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH), Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh (UP) on March 2, 2019.

Interview

1. Dr Preeti Sharda: Tell us a little about yourself.

Dr. Badan Barman: I am the middle son of Shri Joykanta Barman and Smt Joymati Barman. My father used to be a daily laborer who in the mid-1980s migrated from Nalbari district of Assam to Guwahati, Assam in search for a job. So, I have enrolled in a government-run Lower Primary School in Kachua village of Nalbari District and later on took admission in Class-II in the government-run Krishnanagar L.P. School, Guwahati. After passing from the Krishnanagar L.P. School, I got admitted to a local venture school called Krishnanagar Vidyapeeth. During those days, when there were holidays, even I used to work as a daily laborer to help my father in his attempt to run the family. At that time, my elder brother used to work as a cleaner in a local hotel. Till 1997, no one able to pass the Class X examination from Krishnanagar Vidyapeeth school. So, to motivate the students to pass in the Class X examination, some eminent residents of the Krishnangar area announced cash prize money. I got a 1st class in my Class X examination from that school in 1997 and by this way, I got that cash prize money and with that, I took admission in the B. Borooah College in the Higher Secondary (Science). My job as a daily laborer used to continue in those days. I passed Higher Secondary (Science) in the second division and with my earnings, I took admission in B.Sc. (Botany Major) in Guwahati College. At that time my brother’s mothers-in-law gave me a new bicycle to come and go to the college which used to be almost 6 kilometers away from my residence. After passing B.Sc. with 1st division, I approach Mr. Debendra Nath Bhattacharyya sir, Associate Professor of Guwahati College for mentorship in choosing a better career. My inclination was only to the subject where I can get a job in the future. Mr. Debendra Nath Bhattacharyya sir told me to go for a master degree in Library and Information Science. At that time though I was interested in higher studies, I used to have no money to take admission in the Master degree. However, I have appeared in the written test and viva-voce of the Department of Library and Information Science, Gauhati University and accordingly got selected. Some of our neighbors like Mr. Pramod Kakati, Mr. Satyen Talukdar, Mr. Maheshchandra Mahanta and others draw the attention of the Honourable Education Minister of Assam of that time Mr. Pankaj Bora regarding my incapability to take admission in Master degree programme due to weak financial condition. In a meeting organized by the Krishnanagar Unnayan Samiti, Mr. Pankaj Bora called me to his office at Assam Secretariat and accordingly when I went to his office he handed over to me an envelope that when I opened I found the admission fees for taking admission in the Department of Library and Information Science, Gauhati University and then there were no turning back. Later on, I have enrolled in the Ph.D. programme of the Department of Library and Information Science, Gauhati University under the able-guideship of Professor Narendra Lahkar and during those days I used to get the fellowship from Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi and finally, I got Ph.D. in 2011.

2. Dr. Preeti Sharda: How long have you worked in the LIS Profession and how did you get your start in it?

Dr. Badan Barman: Just after appearing Master degree examination in Library and Information Science in 2005, I started working in different capacities in different institute without taking a major break. Immediately after appearing my Master degree examination in Library and Information Science, Gauhati University, Professor Narendra Lahkar nominated me along with Mr. Nikhil Hazarika to work as Apprenticeship in Library and Information Science at Central Reference Library (CRL), Kolkata. I got my examination result of M.L.I.Sc. examination while working as Apprenticeship at CRL, Kolkata. After returning back, I joined as Research Assistant in the ICSSR sponsored research project “Rural Libraries in North East India: A Machine Readable Database” where Professor Narendra Lahkar was the Project Director. Later on, for a short duration, I worked at Media Trust Assam and then joined as Academic Consultant in Library and Information Science at Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University.

3. Dr. Preeti Sharda: What changes you have brought in the department since your inception?

Dr. Badan Barman: Just after joining the Department of Library and Information Science, Gauhati University with the active support of Honourable Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Mridul Hazarika sir, then Registrar, Dr. Suresh Kumar Nath sir and Secretary, University Classes, Dr. Hemanta Kr. Nath sir a Transactional SMS Channel of Gauhati University was developed through which all the staff and faculty members of the university start receiving updates related to the university via SMS. Later on, the Gauhati University published my compilation of the Directory of the Teachers and Officers of Gauhati University in printed as well as a digital version where you can find the contact details of the teachers and staff of the University. The contact detail includes the official address and address of residence along with the mobile number and email id. Further, the directory is arranged in such a way so that when needed, people can just make a photocopy of the directory and paste the official address or residential address at the top of a regular letter envelope.

In the department level, besides regular teaching, I think, I have done only one thing and that is managing contact details of the students, alumni, and history of the department and development of its website. At any moment when needed, now we are in a better position and develop a better way to contact anyone.

4. Dr. Preeti Sharda: Pen down some major accomplishments during your stay at the Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University.

Dr. Badan Barman: I joined Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University on 12th June 2008 as Academic Consultant and Librarian i/c on a contractual basis. On 4th April 2013, I have joined as Assistant Librarian in a permanent post in the same institute. During my tenure in different capacities at KKHSOU, the university has seen the following changes-

Preparation of the syllabus of Diploma in Library and Information Science Programme.
Writing of all the course material for the Diploma in Library and Information Science Programme.
Promotion of the Diploma programme by using all personal and professional avenues and in my days it used to have the most successful diploma programme of all other diploma programmes offered by the University, good employability rate and used to have foreign students.
The Central Library, KKHSOU becomes the first university in entire North East India which was fully RFID-enabled, automated with SOUL 2.0 software, had an enriched collection with well-furnished furniture and fittings.
Launching of the legacy free edition of Google Apps and later on its migration to Google Apps for Education (presently known as GSuite for Education).
Connectivity to National Knowledge Network (NKN).
Launching of Open Access Journals Search Engine (OAJSE) that still used from many countries of the World.
Scanning and hosting of old examination questions papers.
Becoming a YouTube Partner.
Launching of Transactional SMS Channel of KKHSOU.
Launching of KKHSOU Knowledge Hub and KKHSOU Job Portal both of which are presently defunct but during those days it used to have more than 50,000 subscribers and KKHSOU Job Portal even received e-North East Award.
Getting ISBN for the publications of the university.

5. Dr Preeti Sharda: Why did you start LIS Links?

Dr. Badan Barman: Professor Nagubandi Laxman Rao of Osmani University has visited the Department of Library and Information Science, Gauhati University as part of an academic assignment in the year 2007. To make him comfortable here in Guwahati, the department has given me the responsibility to look after him. During our informal interaction, he asked me what I wanted to do after my master degree in Library and Information Science. I spontaneously replied to him that I wanted to do the Ph.D. He warned me not to take a topic that does not contribute anything to the subject. So, when I have registered for the Ph.D. programme, I kept the words of Laxman Rao sir in my mind and accordingly select “Web Resources in Library and Information Science: A Managerial Approach” as my topic under Professor Narendra Lahkar. At that time, as part of Ph.D. I have developed a few blog and wiki sites to manage different web resources in Library and Information Science. During that time, Google announced the launching of Google Knol on December 13, 2007, and someone has developed a social networking site for it over the Ning platform. When I noticed the social networking site of Google Knol over Ning, it immediately drew my attention as I wanted to have such a site instead of my six blogs and two wiki sites at that moment and accordingly I have developed a Ning site on 26th of February, 2008 and Google formally launched Google Knol on July 23, 2008 and later on it was shut down on May 1, 2012.

6. Dr Preeti Sharda: What is the current status of LIS Links?

Dr Badan Barman: As on 25th March 2019, LIS Links has 25,974 members, 9,919 forum posts, 7,151 job posts, 1,284 event posts, 1,508 photos, and other contents. Among all websites LIS Links, Global Alexa rank is 102,032 and in India, it is at 6,987 positions. During the period of Mar 25, 2018-Mar 24, 2019 (1 year) LIS Links receive 38,59,231 Pageviews from 5,51,699 Users in 12,31,359 Sessions. The Pages / Session was 3.13 and the average session duration was 00:16:34.

7. Dr Preeti Sharda: Impact of LIS Links on Indian Library Sector

Dr Badan Barman: “LIS Links” is considered as a huge success and a pioneering effort in the Library and Information Science field in India. It brings all Library and Information Science related information into a systematic order for searching and browsing with many provisions of subscriptions that too, without any duplication and irrelevance. It is India’s first and largest social networking and collaborating initiative platform for LIS professionals. It makes the following impact among the professionals-

Act as Gateway: “LIS Links” is serving as a gateway or single-point access to the Indian LIS profession for the whole world. All information can be searched and browsed by using its website.
Functioning as Online Database of LIS Professionals: The project achieved an online database of 25,975 LIS Professionals (as on 25th March 2019) in India that’s too continuously growing. The members of the database can be searched and browsed using the web interface.
Functioning as Communication Medium: The members of the database are able to communicate among themselves by chat, scrap message, Email, discussion forum, groups, blog, event, photo, music, video, etc.
Duplication and Irrelevancy are Avoided: “LIS Links” policy is rather quite tight in approving contents over the site. Customarily, it doesn’t approve plagiarized, duplicate and irrelevant contents over the website.
Information is Disseminated in a High Speed: The information that goes through moderation is distributed in seconds to the respective subscribers/followers.
Large Number of Subscribers: “LIS Links” gives a mechanism by which the LIS students, research scholar, academicians, and practicing librarians and lastly the people with an interest in LIS can get free Alerting Service / Current Awareness Service (CAS) / Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI) services through SMS, Email and RSS in all subfield of LIS.
Frequently Updated: The news clipping and other information regularly displayed over the platform are updated daily. The important posts are also shared in Google Plus, Twitter and Facebook.
Highly Acclaimed: PC Quest Magazine, June 2009 in its nomination of the LIS Links project to the PC Quest Best IT Implementations of the Year 2009

“Online Portal and Web-Based Solutions” category commented as “this initiative has made this portal one of India’s best in LIS and among a very few in the world” (PC Quest 2009).

Again, in the PC Quest June 2010 issue, LIS Links was included among 200 Tech success stories.

The LIS Links project was also able to receive “Jury Special Mention” award in the category of “Best Usages of ICT in Education and Learning” in the E-North East Award 2011 held at Kohima, Nagaland (India).

It recieved eNorth East Award-2014 on 7 November 2014 confered by North East Development Foundation and Department of ICT, Government of Mizoram.

It also received “Jury Special Mention” award in the category of Advocacy & Empowerment in the North East Social Impact Award 2015 held at NEDFi House, Guwahati, Assam (India) on 28th August 2015.

8. Dr. Preeti Sharda: Today LIS profession is facing so many problems, especially for the people who are working with the private organizations; I would say the cause lies in roots from where the foundation of the profession is made (LIS Schools). There is a huge gap between what LIS students study and what LIS professional actually do. Please comment.

Dr. Badan Barman: Yes, you are right; there is a huge difference between what we taught them and what they supposed to do after their employment. In most of the institutions, there is a huge difference between the syllabus of the programme and its application in real life, in some institution, the difference is less, however, the difference is always there. You can consider it like, if they need in real life is 100%, the institution covers 80% of the content in their syllabus and out of that 80%, they covered, 80% of the syllabus is taught in the class [making it (80/100) * 80=64% of the total need] and again out of that 80%, most of the student only able to cover 80% (making it (64/100) * 80=51.2%]. So, they go to the market with only 51.2% of the knowledge which is needed in their real life.

However, this is not only true for the Library and Information Science subject. Even this is true for other truly professional subjects. That is why there is a need to have the apprenticeship courses just after the Master degree programme in Library and Information Science.

9. Dr. Preeti Sharda: Any concluding remarks.

Dr. Badan Barman: We are living in a world full of distractor and in India, majorities of the population are cricket addiction patients, a major fraction of others are suffering from video gaming disorder, problematic social media use, TV and Web-Series addict and alcohol, and drug addict. To be able to do something, you should be free from those addicts and be self-motivated and determined to achieve your set target. Otherwise, there is every chance that you will be thrown-away from your aim by your surrounding including your virtual and real friend. So, keep motivated, keep reading, and keep working instead of being busy with your smartphone. Otherwise, it’s not going to lead anywhere other than your own end and then don’t blame anyone. Those who are student or research scholar can devote their time for their primary objective i.e. reading. Those who are qualified and unemployed in Library and Information Science instead of being busy with other distractor and looking for people who can employ them can explore the possibilities of using the internet for livelihood generation.

(The interview was conducted by Dr. Preeti Sharda, Librarian of Regional Institute of English, Chandigarh. It was a great honour to take interview of a dedicated and a very hardworking professional like Dr. Badan Barman. Some of the questions are still to be answered but Dr. Barman has promised to complete the interview very soon. Thank you so much, Dr. Barman, for sparing time from your busy schedule).

Dr Rajeev Manhas: A Multifaceted Librarian

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Fri, 14 Jun 2019 07:33:00 +0000

Interviewer: Dr. Preeti Sharda

Reading any document is like hunting a treasure, and you will find new things in your every hunt.

- Dr. Rajeev Manhas

Dr. Rajeev Manhas is a Librarian who is ever ready for experimentation and has superhuman patience. He has a positive and open attitude to the challenges in today’s dynamic information and education environments. He is a pro-active librarian. According to him "Run your imagination beyond academic limitation to create what is impossible earlier". He is confident enough to take initiatives and always thinks outside the proverbial box. A soft-spoken librarian kind-hearted person can only reach the heights of community service as Dr. Manhas has reached. He is actively involved with a community project Digital Doctor: Video Consultancy Services using mobiles to make the world disease free. He is Founder President, Digital Integrated Services for Health Care Foundation Welfare Society for health information sciences education and research. Other than the library and community work. He is a great writer too. His literary works in Hindi, Punjabi and English are very appreciated within his circle. Singing, painting, acting, and shooting are his other hobbies.

Eat good food and read good thoughts.

- Dr. Rajeev Manhas

Dr. Rajeev Manhas has over 23 years’ experience in librarianship, engineering, and health sciences information systems. He has published over 70 research papers at the national and international levels and has also published 9 books. He is a Ph.D. in Library & Information Science and has done three Post-Graduate Degrees. He has done many diplomas as well. He is Editor-in-Chief of a National Library Science Journal and dedicated member of Editorial Boards of 12 scientific journals (7 international and 5 national) and is a professional member of various national and international organizations. He has organized more than twenty national and international conferences, workshops, seminars, and symposiums and also presented several papers at national and international conferences/seminars including AMRCB International Conference and International Seminar on Water for Health with IC-IMPACTS, Canada in 2013. He has received over 16 national and international academic awards/ honors/ appreciation certificates are in credit. Dr. Manhas has visited various universities/educational institutes of India, Canada, USA, and Sri Lanka. He was the pioneer for the establishment of Health Sciences Library Network (HSLIBNET): A Punjab State Consortium of E-resources in 2009.

Interview

1 Dr. Preeti Sharda: Let’s walk through your background. Also, tell your journey from B.Com. to Ph.D.

Dr Rajeev Manhas: Well, I am basically from a very small town of district Una of Himachal Pradesh i.e. Mehatpur (village Basdehra). My schooling was from different places of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Chandigarh as my father was in a transferable job of Central Government of India. In 1995 when I was in the final year of B.Com. and was also pursuing Diploma in Computer Applications, I got my first job in LIS profession as a Library Attendant in newly established engineering college of Punjab i.e. Shaheed Bhagat Singh College of Engineering & Technology, Ferozepur. After completion of my graduation, I was actually interested to join Indian Air Force but unfortunately could not qualify the Service Selection Board (SSB) test. After my post-graduation in commerce. I thought to persue my career in the management side or to work in an MNC. Sometimes destiny chooses for you, hence, I choose my career in Library & Information Science. I am really thankful to my colleagues at SBSCET, Ferozepur from whom I got to know about this profession. I did my post graduation in LIS from Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra (Haryana) and Ph.D. from Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar in 2005. Furthermore, I also completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Library Automation and Networking and recently completed a Master of Science (Information Technology) in 2019.

2. Dr. Preeti Sharda: Your professional qualifications also include a Diploma in Computer Applications (DCA), Associate Member of Management Studies Promotion Institute, New Delhi, India (AMSPI) and Fellow Member of United Writer’s Association, Chennai (FUWAI) degrees. Three masters and so many other courses. Seems you are passionate about getting higher education. But you settled down in LIS profession. Are you happy to be in this profession? What had been your second choice?

Dr Rajeev Manhas: Yes, you are absolutely right. I am very much passionate about education and learning. As it is rightly said that education is an important tool to succeed in life and helps individual to grow personally, socially and as well as economically. I choose to further explore life by using the lighthouse of education and wants to travel the journey of life as a lifelong learner. I keep one more line of wisdom in my subconscious mind which was given by Prof. Lalit Sharma, one of my mentors from Shaheed Bhagat Singh College of Engineering & Technology, Ferozepur "Spend your money to gain education and for purchase books, on apply for new opportunities and to stay healthy". Actually, when I got a job in the library, it was in my mind to use it as the first step to proceed further in my career options of life. So, firstly I tried in my dream job i.e. in Air Force than in management side and at last decided to be a library & information science professional when I found a large scope to do the things of my choice. The urge further enhanced when I met eminent personalities of LIS and passionate librarians during the first conference of Indian Library Association attended at Hisar (Haryana) in 1999. Library & Information Science, as a profession, encompass the development of one of the greatest human abilities i.e. organization of anything. This profession helps to further develop skills of instant information retrieval, ethical use of information and fastest delivery and dissemination of information. Indeed, I am very happy with this profession and want to contribute to this profession in such a way that it be more inclined with other professions in the world.

3 Dr. Preeti Sharda: You are working at BFUHS, Faridkot since 2006. Can you describe your current work responsibilities?

Dr Rajeev Manhas: After working in an engineering institution of Punjab for almost 10 years and completion of my Ph.D. in January 2006, I got selected as Assistant Librarian at Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot, Punjab in May 2006 and since October 2010, I am working as Deputy Librarian and Head of University Library. When I joined here, initially, I was given charge of the library of University College of Nursing, Faridkot as in the name of University Library merely 100 books were existing at that time in a rented building of University. During February 2007, the then Vice-Chancellor decided to establish a University Library and the development of University Library started with the allotment of a room with one staff member within a temporary building. Slowly and slowly, we started working on all developmental aspects of the library system including, enrichment in the collection of resources, staff, and place. As the resources of health sciences, subjects were very much costly so, it was difficult to fulfill the information needs of users at every college level. Moreover, to bridge the gap accessibility and affordability of resources at the place and time of users' choice, the University Library set up a Health Sciences Library Network (HSLIBNET) of all the affiliated colleges of the University in 2010. This network started providing access to e-resources to more than 40000 students and teachers of 149 affiliated colleges spread over entire Punjab. These efforts were well recognized and during 2014, this consortium got the Highest Usage Award in the medical segment in the country from M/s EBSCO International, USA. To train the health sciences, librarians, a teaching department was also established in 2010 and started Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences Librarianship (PGDHL) and Ph.D. in Health Information System. Unfortunately, due to less response to this new initiative, the department was closed in 2015 and only one student did PGDHL course since that period. In 2011, the University Library has been shifted to newly constructed Academic Block with all ultra modern facilities, fully air-conditioned with maker's place type of settings including, a unique setup i.e. Preservation Lab, Communication Lab, Informatics Lab, Video Conference Lab, Lecture, Meeting Rooms, etc. There are more targets to be achieved for making this library as a place of health innovations and learning.

4 Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please share about previous work assignments I mean where you worked before joining BFHUS?

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: Well, before joining BFUHS, I was in engineering college established by the Punjab Government viz. Shaheed Bhagat Singh College of Engineering & Technology, Ferozepur, rather I started my career from this institution as Library Attendant in 1995. As a journey in this profession which was started being an attendant, what I learned that nothing is impossible. I used the success mantra for my subconscious mind that is “I can and I will”, which strengthen me in all my odds. I started my Ph.D. in LIS in my tenure as an attendant and got fruitful results of hardship being promoted as Library Assistant in 2003 and worked in this college up to May 2006.

5 Dr. Preeti Sharda: In your 23 years’ experience in librarianship you have published more than 74 research papers at the national and international level and have also published 9 books. You have also presented about 15 papers in various national and international conferences. You have delivered around 28 Invited Lectures/ Papers. If I total them all it comes around 117 research paper and 9 books. All these data reflect that you have dedicated yourself in the field of research. Please tell how do you manage this amount of research publication.

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: It is really an interesting question and very aptly asked. Yes, it reflects that I am on the track, which is more filled with research and academic activities. I want to say in this context that there is a phenomenal transition in the nature of librarian’s job in these days as most of them are involved in the academic activities of any education system in addition to their role as a librarian. It is also pertinent that in whatever field a librarian is working, he or she should share their experiences including challenges and best practices in the mode of research outputs and public speaking so that other fellow libraries & information science professionals be got benefits from it. Moreover, I am lucky that I was surrounded by more research-minded people due to working experience in special libraries of engineering and medical sciences.

6 Dr. Preeti Sharda: Sounds great. Tell something about the ‘Health Sciences Library Network (HSLIBNET): A Punjab State Consortium of E-resources in 2009’.

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: The Health Sciences Library Network (HSLIBNET)–a consortium of 149 affiliated colleges of the University, is one of the major and very successful consortiums in the country. It was a dream project and when I joined BFUHS, Faridkot, Punjab, a University which is situated in a rural and remote setting of the country and also very near to Indo-Pak border, I found there is a big gap between availability and accessibility of health information resources. As these resources are very costly and it is difficult for the library of any health sciences institution to maintain a complete collection at individual levels so to meet the ever-increasing health information needs of the users. Hence, an idea to create a network of all the health sciences libraries of affiliated colleges of the University was pounded during 2006 and many brainstorming sessions were organized to give it a real shape and many financing models were tested and finally the self-financing model was chosen which was happily approved by the Board of Management of the University in 2009. The trial access of resources was started in 2010 onwards. After the success of the trial period, 2011 was the beginning year for it. At the initial stage, the usage was very low due to lack of awareness. Hence, many programmes on a regular basis were organized annually resultant in 2014, the consortium was awarded “Highest Usage Award” in the medical segment in the country. Even, the Association of Health Sciences Universities of India also declared to set up All India Health Sciences Library Network on the lines HSLIBNET. Thus, we can say this network up to some extent is able to bridge the gap of accessibility and affordability of health information resources.

7 Dr. Preeti Sharda: You are Founder President, Digital Integrated Services for Health Care Foundation Welfare Society. What are the activities of this society? Please tell how community project Digital Doctor: Video Consultancy Services using mobiles was started.

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: Dr. Preeti Ji, the journey to identify the self, most of the time creates different things in life. This also happened in my life. The DISHA Foundation Welfare Society is also the discovery of self-realization, when found life is working on the other side, not in ‘me’, so started working for others. The foundation used the similar principles of library & information science for the execution of some its major programmes means work on “right kind of healthcare to right kind of patient at right kind of place and on right time” and like ‘Digital Doctor Visiting Home’. The main motto of the foundation is to make this world healthier and disease free. The WHO says that there should be one doctor available for population of one thousand (1:1000) and in developing country like India, there is a big gap in this ratio i.e. 1:1676. Moreover, in villages where 68% of the population is living, this gap more widened (1:10000 or more). Only 2% of doctors are available in the villages of the country for 68% population. Hence, we decided to work in this direction to bridge the gap of accessibility and affordability of healthcare services in the country. DISHA started its first programme ‘Digital Doctor: A video consultancy platform’ for the people of remote and villages in February 2017 and within three months of its inception more than 300 people got free video consultancy along with free medicines. In 2018, the foundation ties with other NGOs working on the same lines viz. World Cancer Society, UK, Khalsa Aid, UK, Aas Welfare Society, Ferozepur, Radhey Krishna Dhaam, Faridkot and with Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot and adopted an Indo-Pak border village ‘Rajjo-Ke-Gatti’ at District Ferozepur of Punjab. In addition to video-consultancy, direct benefits to the needy, organization of free medical check-up camps were started with free medicines distribution and major surgeries free on cost. More than 1400 people got benefits from these kinds of initiatives of DISHA. We have a team of more than 70 people including specialist doctors, nurses, social workers, scientists, engineers, and volunteers. It is one step towards a disease-free world.

8 Dr. Preeti Sharda: What are the future plans regarding Disha Foundation?

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: Preeti Ji, as I have earlier already mentioned that the main objective of the NGO is to make this world healthier and disease free. Actually, we are interested in works toward the creation of World Digital Hospital with the support of health specialists all over the world, who will consent for this noble cause, so that people worldwide may get the benefits of this network. We have started development of mobile applications (apps) also to reach the doorsteps of needy people and it is in our plan that we will create more apps for the stakeholders to share an authentic and availability of more reliable information. We are inviting each and everyone to support an association with us voluntarily with their ideas and materials if any so that we may reach on the next level of our objective.

9 Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please share your experiences as Chief Nodal Officer of UNESCO International Centre for Bioethics of Punjab State.

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: The UNESCO established a Chair in Bioethics in the Haifa University, Israel on the basis of an agreement signed in between the Director-General of UNESCO and the Rector of the Haifa University, Israel on June 24, 2001, with a mission to disseminate, improve and monitor education in ethics in medical schools. Afterward, Bioethics Units within universities and research centers have been established in various parts of the world, thus to create a network of Units under the umbrella of UNESCO. On similar lines, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot has also set up this International Center of Punjab State for 149 affiliated colleges in collaboration with UNESCO to train and reflect the Bioethics in practice among the medical professionals. It is a matter of great pride that I have been given this responsibility to coordinate and it will also help me to learn and practice ethics in our library system and especially in myself. We have organized international workshops in 20017 and more than 60 medical professionals were trained so that they further can train professionals at their respective workplaces or institutions.

10 Dr. Preeti Sharda: You have done amazing works in the LIS field. If possible, please tell about the patent submitted related to Library Science.

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: Really! It is not like that. I am just doing my duty and want to serve our community in a better way to provide the next level of easiness in getting the desired service and information to them. Yes, we have applied for a grant of the patent for an innovative idea on which I and my colleague worked for at least one year. I think this will not be the right time to disclose it, and after the grant of the patent, we would definitely like to share it with all of you. Need best wishes of all for the same.

11 Dr. Preeti Sharda: Copyright and plagiarism are the issues resulting in unethical practice to research. Please give insight about the case for copyrights submitted.

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: Yes, indeed, both these issues are rust on the original research and creativity, and also tarnishing the academic environment. There is a paradigm shift in the process of disseminating the scientific information, the academic community may be indulging in such issues due to the desire to further professional aspirations. The factors, like the requirement of publications for professional growth, academic promotions, etc. are also adding more fuel to such an ethically repugnant and an intellectually deceitful work. These academic menaces must be curved at an early stage before it too late. I think awareness of these issues can play a lead role to curve it up to some extent. An individual or institution in India can apply to get the copyright(s) for any kinds of creativity from Copyright Office of Government of India at New Delhi. The application can be filed online with a nominal fee and the Copyright Office issue certificate for the same. In our University, we have recently applied for the copyright for “Documentary Films” created, which will be new additions to our certified Intellectual Properties.

12 Dr. Preeti Sharda: Tell about the three trademarks prepared by you.

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: It is important that one should convert all its creativities into a standardized outcome. In other words, conversion of creative works into Intellectual Properties and rights for the same should also be attained by applying through procedures of right attainment. Trademarks are also part of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs). We have prepared four trademarks for our different office trades viz. Trademark for HSLIBNET, Trademark of University Libraries and Trademark of DISHA Foundation and submitted to IPR Division of Punjab State Council for Science & Technology, Chandigarh for registration.

13 Dr. Preeti Sharda: Being the General Secretary of Punjab Library Association what efforts you have made to make the service condition of librarians of Punjab better?

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: It will not be surprising if I say not so much, as we were working towards our main goal to get enacted the Punjab Public Library and Information Services Bill, so far a very little progress is there on the subject matter. I think for the development of library & information science profession in the country, we must have a Council. The Council should also have Sub-Councils in each States of the Country. Every library and library & information professional should have to register in the Council, so that at least we may know how many libraries and professionals are there in the country and I hope a Council based approach will able to create a better perspective of our profession.

14 Dr. Preeti Sharda: Your poems and quotations are positive and inspirational. What made Dr Manhas a positive person?

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: Oh great and thank you! It is really a big compliment for me. Actually and truly, this poem writing journey was started during 1998 when one of my friends requested me to write few lines in his letter to her fiancée on behalf of him and when he got an appreciation for those lines. This appreciation gave me encouragement to move on this direction and I wrote more than 100 poems and also started writing quotations. Dr. Preeti, I want to say that positive environment gives always positive results. So, a positive environment created around me by my parents, family members and friends made me a positive person and I am on the track to expand it as more as I can with my tools including writing positive attitude poems.

15 Dr. Preeti Sharda: You directed and gave your voice for ‘Documentary Film Baba Sheikh Farid Aagman Purab, Faridkot’. Please provide some insight into it.

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: The making of this documentary film (https://youtu.be/bW5vOsXLYQQ) was very special for me as gives new wings to my thoughts for the development and creation of visual documentation. Librarians can play a big role in the preservation and documenting the local culture using technology and other visual aids. This film was funded by District Administration of Faridkot and about great Sufi Saint Baba Farid Ji. This film gave me an unforgettable moment when more than 800 people sitting in the auditorium gave the standing aviation and clapped for at least 2 minutes at the time of its first show. Afterward, we made another Punjab Government funded documentary film “A Film on Biodiversity and Cultural Heritage of District Faridkot”, which was having more than 60000 views and 1000 shares on social media sites.

16 Dr. Preeti Sharda: “Education has become commerce”. Your article in ‘The Tribune’, Friday, October 6, 2006, Chandigarh, India. Tell what we can do.

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: Education has become commerce in these days and it is not only deteriorating the quality of education but also I think like adding fuel in corruption and other associated social issues. Privatization of education and limited monitoring of fee culture of these institutions are playing a key role in widening the gap in education level between rich and poor students. Hence, we should have to strongly react to these issues at all possible levels. Though the Constitution of India inserted an article for free and compulsory education of all children in the age group of six to fourteen years as a Fundamental Right yet more is required to be done so that it should be within the limit of a common man.

17 Dr. Preeti Sharda: Describe Dr. Manhas as a friend, a colleague and a family man.

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: I want to be such a friend that my friends without any hesitation and proudly can say that Dr. Rajeev Manhas is my friend. As a colleague, I want to become a team member and learning partner, to bridge the gap between achievable and unachievable targets. As a family member, I further want that my family members may find in me a best friend, loving, caring and a person to be followed for his commitments, dedication, honesty, and hard work.

18 Dr. Preeti Sharda: Any Suggestion for upcoming professionals especially for those who are thinking to join health sciences librarianship. Your Final thoughts about the professional and about the interview.

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: Health Sciences Librarianship is special kinds of librarianship. Though it is not much established in the country yet demand is arising day-by-day as medical librarianship can play a big role in healthcare management on the basis of evidence. Library & Information Science profession is a wonderful profession with a hidden secret i.e. its use and applies its principles in self-management and in personal life also. As it will not be wrong, if I say that LIS professionals are master converter of information to knowledge and trained on how to retrieve a piece of information and use it to innovate. It is very promising and adventurous career line. I am feeling that all my dreams come true as I got things beyond my expectations from this profession. Best of luck to the coming generations and request to be proactive in this profession to achieve more. Dr. Preeti, you are doing a wonderful job as no such platform in the world is available so far on which LIS professionals are interviewed. It will definitely work as a guiding and source of inspiration for the newcomers and will also motivate our other LIS professionals, so a big compliment to Dr. Preeti Sharda, the great LIS innovator of this digital era.

19 Dr. Preeti Sharda: Anything else which you want to share from your side?

Dr. Rajeev Manhas: In addition to the above, singing, painting, acting and shooting are my hobbies, which I have not shared earlier. Furthermore, I want to share that life is just like a cricket game and one should have to be on the ground to play on an average 60000 balls every day (Human mind daily perceives 60000 thoughts. Quoted from Dr. Kapil Kakkar; Secrets of Success Through Bhagvad Gita, 2010, 19 p.). Hence, more and more practice and preparedness are required to face and play every type of ball (opportunities or problems). So, well prepare yourself to win the life game.

The character is the only desired outcome of hard training to build it in the game of life.

- Dr. Rajeev Manhas

(Disclaimer: I conducted this interview through email. I am Dr. Preeti Sharda working as a Librarian, at the Regional Institute of English, Chandigarh. It was an amazing experience. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Manhas for sparing time from his busy schedule. Since Dr. Manhas is a literary person, I have taken a few lines from his works in the interview itself. Interacting with professionals like him inspire you to be a better person, provide you with motivation to achieve your goals, empower you to make the changes you need to succeed and cheer on your success.).

Dr Maneesh Bajpai: A Law Librarian with a Poetic Rhythm

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Sun, 05 May 2019 04:58:00 +0000

Interviewer: Dr. Preeti Sharda

"उसी शहर में हूँ फिर,जहाँ शबनम घास में लिपटी रहती थी,

और सुबह मुलाक़ात के बहाने देती थी,
तरोताज़ा तो मैं वैसे भी हो जाता था,
जब जब तू रुख़सार से निकलती थी।"....... Dr Bajpai

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai is a dynamic, hardworking and a true LIS professional. He has a mission to take the LIS profession to greater heights and works very hard. His motto towards the profession is to facilitate a large national network which is a valued presence and meeting space for information, ideas, imagination and culture in every town and village in the country. The motto for his library service in RMLNLU is “Quick response and user first” and he really strives to ensure that everyone has a good experience when they visit RMLNLU library. He loves to play with IT and always keen to learn about the new advancement in the application in LIS field. He doesn’t mix his personal and professional life at all. He is a reliable and trustworthy friend for his friend ready to do anything for them. He is a poet by heart and a soldier by actions.

Dr. Maneesh Kumar Bajpai is working with Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University, Lucknow as Deputy Librarian - Librarian in-charge since 2006. He is the man behind a state-of-art ultra-modern library known as Madhu Limaye Library of RMLNLU. He has experience of over 13 years in the LIS field. He has done Ph.D. (LIS), UGC-NET (LIS) and PGDCA. He is a life member of ILA, IASLIC, UPLA, Online LIS Professional Reference Service, and RRC. He is Assistant Programme In-charge of IGNOU programmes at RMLNLU Center, Lucknow. He has been nominated as a member of several committees of BBAU, SGPGI, UPBSN, SMNRU, etc. He has contributed as an external examiner/subject expert for several universities/institutes viz. IGNOU, CSJMU, UPRTOU, MGAHV, UPBTE, Nagpur University, etc. He is active in the LIS profession. He has been energetically involved in various LIS activities.

Before the interview of Dr. Bajpai let me introduce the poet "Manu". He has written beautiful poems that too in a simple and understandable manner.

थोड़ा रुखा सा हूँ,

पर दिल आईने सा साफ़ रखता हूँ,

लोग चेहरे यूँ ही पढ़ते रहे,

पर आईने में साफ़ साफ़ दिखता हूँ।

चाँद कभी इस पार है तो कभी उस पार,

मैं आसमान सा सबका सफर रखता हूँ।

हिसाब किताब का कमजोर हूँ,

खातों को बंद रखता हूँ,

महफिलों में भले ही अकेला रहूँ,

पर सबकी ख़बर रखता हूँ।

बूँद को शिकवा है बादल से फिर,

बादल को आसमां से,

कितना कौन बरषा क्या पता,

मनु तो अपने हिस्से का सैलाब रखता है।।

मनु 23.11.2016

बर्फ पिघले या, फिर टूट जाये,

अगर टूट कर बिखरना है,

और बिखर कर पिघलना हैं,

बेकार का क्या तमाशा,

वजूद’ को तो पानी में बहना है ||

ये जिंदगी का सफर है यारों,

तोल मोल कर पिघलो, वरना,

ज़माना बना दे गा ‘जिंदगी’ पानी,

ज़वानी तो बस रह जाये गी ‘बेमानी’ ||.

मनु15.11.2012

Interview

Dr. Preeti Sharda: You have studied in various places. Any specific reason for studying at so many places or it happened by chance. What kind of social change did you notice while studying in different places? Also, tell something about your background.

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: I did BSc. from my native place Kanpur (U.P.) and took admission in C.A. course, but because of a serious illness, I was hospitalized and had to drop the course in between. One of my relatives suggested me to join BLIS Course. I was so desperate to join the course to use the time and when I saw the admission notice of Bundelkhand University; I applied. I qualified for the entrance and joined the course and I completed my MLIS from there only. During my MLIS course, I qualified UGC-NET examination. Probably, I was the first student of that department who qualified UGC-NET in the II semester of MLIS itself. I got a chance to work with SSPL, DRDO, DELHI as a Library Intern. RMLNLU did not allow me to join full-time Ph.D. course. So I opted for open mode and completed Ph.D. from the Open University, Bhopal. The interest in ICT compelled me to join the PGDCA course, and I completed it from distance learning mode from Kurukshetra University.

I witnessed the wonderful cultural heritage and exchanged with various people. It helped me to build strong relationships and have a better understanding of society. I noticed that society is more or less almost the same everywhere. Only cultural difference is of language, food and dressing style.

I come from a decent family which is not economically sound. I have an elder sister and two younger brothers. My father worked at a junior position at Uttar Pradesh Police and used to get transferred from one place to another. Finally, we permanently shifted to Kanpur. Being the elder brother, I used to take care of my brothers and sister. It helped me to be responsible and work as a team too. I used to take tuitions to bear the expenses of my studies. I also worked at many places and also as a medical representative in a reputed pharma company for 03 months.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please tell something about your present job.

Dr Maneesh Bajpai: I joined this institution in August 2006 and it was in a nascent stage. The university was inaugurated on 5^th August 2006 by then Chief Minister and Chief Justice of India. It will surprise you that I joined the university on the same day. You can say that I joined as a founder member of the university. The black dog squad welcomed me first, and Administration told me to get ready for the visit of CM and CJI (within one hour). It was quite an amazing experience too. The library building was under construction. The library started from a 'one-room library' with no other staff member except me. There was no university's website at that time but I developed a LAN based library website and also an automated library with MS-ACCESS. I uploaded the first result of the university on the library website only and I was given the responsibility to work with NIC to develop the university website.

I got the possession of the present Library building at the end of 2007 and the library shifted to the new place in 2008. Keeping in view the requirements of the tech-savvy students and the motto of the library ‘User First and Instant Response’, I tried to develop an ultra-modern library system with a fully Wi-Fi environment. I automated the library with LIBSYS 4.0 LMS with web-OPAC and, a Client-server based digital lab of 50 thin clients which saved a lot of money too. I developed a video conferencing facility in the library with the latest sensing technologies in 2007 for organizing lectures, etc. We introduced a complete RFID system in 2010. We migrated to Web-Centric LIBSYS 7 and upgraded the RFID system with 'Self-designed 'Self-Check-in/Check-out' system in 2017. Web-OPAC Kiosk was installed in 2012 and another was added in 2017. Remote Access Facility and Plagiarism Check service were also introduced in the Library. Online resources were introduced by the library in 2006 itself under a static IP environment. We have developed a world-class library with the updated and latest collection. We are used to organize various library orientation and other programmes for university members at regular intervals.

I am a member of the website management committee, cyber cell committee, Annual Report Committee, Convocation Organizing Committee, NAAC, and various other committees. Online Common Law Admission Test first introduced by RMLNLU in 2015 and I was given an opportunity to work as a core member of the ‘CLAT Online-2015 Organizing Committee’. I tried to make the RMLNLU journal streamline as Managing editor. I am happy to inform you that now it is up-to-date in publication and also indexed with Indian Citation Index in 2017.

I was the Coordinator for the 04 days capacity building programme for Public Prosecutors of 50 participants of each batch. We gave training to such 485 officers APO, PO, SPO, JDs of Prosecution Directorate of Uttar Pradesh in the first leg in 2017-18. It was the first experiment where a pre-loaded bundle of 50 e-books, statutes, judgments, etc in a 3G Tablet device been given to each participant as a resource kit. Because they do not have access to the library at their workplace and without the library, they cannot perform. Keeping in view their requirements, we planned 'Library in the Pocket' for them. In the Second leg in 2019, we again trained 441 officers of APO and PO level in 05 days programmes in nine batches. It was a great experience to train such officers on Open Access Resources which they never know.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please tell what changes you brought as SPARC.

Dr Maneesh Bajpai: In October 2018 only, I have been nominated as SPARC Coordinator. Legal Research is quite a different area from pure sciences and science and technology particularly. I am trying to encourage faculty members to participate in the centrally funded research proposals. Keeping in view the fact that 75% of faculty members are very young and dynamic, I am trying to organize a workshop with the help of SPARC to sensitize the faculty members for the research.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Being the publishing managing of your institutes' journal what will be your efforts to publish a good quality journal, and may be included in SCOPUS and Web of Science?

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: As for as the concern with the indexing with Web of Science and Scopus, they are purely based on the foreign language based commercial indexing databases. It may not suit every subject field. In the Indian scenario, an indexing system should be evolved which may entertain journals which are publishing in other than the English language too. Being the managing editor of the University Journal, I ensured timely publication with blind peer review. The articles submitted by the internal faculty members are been sent to the experts other than the RMLNLU. To get global exposure and legal editorial expertise, we signed an MoU with a very renowned publisher M/s Eastern Book Co. Pvt. Ltd. They are known for the standard and quality publishing of Law Journals and Case Law reporters. They put the full text of RMLNLU journal under SCC online database.

Honesty is the best policy. I ensured transparency and review and publication of the journal. This is the reason, now it is indexed with Indian Citation Index too. I am also planning to implement the Open Journal System (OJS) or any other technology to make our journal fully online from submission to review to recommendations for editing and publishing. I am sure it will encourage more transparency and publishing ethics.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please elaborate on "lab for the visually impaired person".

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: Till 2014 RMLNLU library didn’t have any service for visually impaired because there was no such member in the library. But in 2014, one student enrolled in B.A.LL.B. programme. After an interaction with him, I got to know that he didn't require Braille books. That’s why we thought about software technology. Immediately we purchased a JAWS, PEARL and other OCR software and also a recording machine. With these software packages, we introduced a "Lab for the Visually Impaired Person". As till now, he is the only student, we have issued ‘Portable Recording Machine’ to him by which he may record the lecturers and listen and study. We also helped him to get a laptop for study from the University.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Since you have been part of many LIS activities in various capacities, please share some of your good and bad experiences.

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: It is always being a great honor and pleasure when you get a chance to quench your academic passion by delivering lectures on the basis of your research and experience. You rightly said the quality is a great concern. Each academic program has great potential to deliver academic acumen. We meet some very dynamic and prolific researchers in such programmes. Recently, at IIHMR, I met a very humble young and an experienced scholar which enhanced my skills.

I think if we would like to make such activities fruitful then one should ignore formalities of long opening and closing ceremonies. We should give proper time to presenters. Some Guidelines should be issued to the presenter while selecting the paper for the event. It is always very disheartening to see that presenter has only 2-3 minutes to present his research. We should select limited papers for presentation which are innovative in nature.

In 2012, In an International Conference, I was called to present a paper and when I started, the chair said “you have only 2 minutes” and suggested me to deliver conclusion part only. I said thank you and humbly left the podium. In a national conference, I was invited speaker and organizers were requesting to cut down from 15 minutes to 05 minutes. The Chair said no “Dr. Bajpai you please take your time. We all are here for academic purpose. Whosoever needs Lunch, please go an enjoy lunch and who are for the session please be here”. I took exactly the allotted time and the session was full of new academic experiences. Fine tune is the only panacea. The priorities are changed nowadays. Therefore, serious efforts are required to be done to achieve the goals of such academic activities.

चलो कोई मुझे हराने के लिए ही आ जाए,

तन्हा किससे लड़ूँ, कोई लड़ने के बहाने ही साथ निभाने चला आये।.........Dr Bajpai

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Did you actually receive your ballot paper for ILA elections 2019 or not? Does ILA perform is performing its duty well? If not how should it work and how can you contribute towards the strengthening of the activities of the association?

Dr Maneesh Bajpai: First I would like to congratulate to you for your great research done on me. I tried my best to get my Ballot Paper and inform through email to the then president and the Election officer 2019. But, I have not received it till date. You will be surprised that ILA has only 6000 members from across the country. It is quite shocking to know that the addresses are not correct or fake too. Conference/ seminar organization support role is quite an outdated idea of ILA, it should come out from such curtains.

If I would have a chance to work with ILA, first I will ensure that addresses of the members are verified with the legal address proof viz. the voter ID card, Aadhar Card, Electricity Bill, Passport, Ration Card, Driving License, etc. It will help to check the membership too. The web portal shall be upgraded where online membership and address proof may be uploaded. Regular meetings with UGC, MHRD and other bodies should be organized where issues pertaining to LIS professionals’ may be addressed. Such meetings details shall be uploaded on the website. The LIS professionals shall be encouraged to join the ILA. More than 02 Lakh LIS professionals are there across the country and only 6000 of them are members of ILA. It should be made at par AIFUCTTA. It has been observed that some people are contesting election every time with altering positions in ILA since 2002. It should be stopped. A person should not be allowed to be an office-bearer more than two tenures in any of the position in ILA. It will give a chance to new professionals. There should be a mandatory election every three years. There should not be unopposed like situation. The ILA should be very transparent in nature and action. Only then, ILA will achieve glory and may be able to provide justice to LIS professionals.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Do you think social media and another web 2.0 technologies can help LIS professionals to market and promote their services?

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: Yah, Sometimes. I feel that we may use social media to empower the LIS services. The youngsters, as well as the matured persons, are very frequently using social media. We first try to understand the exact need of the users and the role of social media to address their requirements. Then only, we may make use of social media for marketing and promotion of library services. I believe personalized services may be given to users through social media. Because the group system under social media creates a problem and may become boring to the users. The Library professionals should have to apply their mind that which information to be given to which user. Otherwise, it simply misuses of social media by giving each information to all. The groups in social media are like ‘ज्यादा जोगी मठ उजाड़’.... हा हा हाहा.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Your recent publication “Measuring Impact of Open Source Software Training Programme and Workshop on LIS Professionals: A Study of DSpace Software” talks about the training programmes OSS. Please elaborate.

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: Open Source Software are still a challenge to LIS professionals. The simple reason is-- they are not properly trained with ICT, computer & software technology. I am sorry but, it is true. Most of such workshops are evolved as to fulfill the criteria of organizing such events. Training to whom and how it has to be given is not a concern to most of the organizers. OSS movement only will be successful, if we first train the LIS professionals from basics of Computer and software technology and then OSS. e.g. very few know about LINUX or UBUNTU but we are giving them training of KOHA and DSpace through DEMO CD or with pre-loaded machines. Imagine when they will go back to their institutions, how they will do in their workplace.

According to the research till April 2019, almost 20,000 LIS professionals are being trained on KOHA and DSpace on various platforms. You will be surprised to know that out of these 20000 participants, only 2000 have implemented and using KOHA/DSpace. Therefore, proper planning and meticulous objectives are needed to be applied for such OSS training programs otherwise it is just a mockery.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Please tell something about the library Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University, Lucknow.

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: Preeti Ji, I earlier told that the motto of the library is ‘USer First and Instant Response’. In view of that, we developed a fully digital and Automated Library System. Even, we do not have print catalog cards. Law students used to sit in groups for their study because their needs are quite different from students of other disciplines. We created user’s space in 2010, where at one hall they are allowed to sit in a pair, in another hall, they may prepare in a group and in another hall, a single sitting is allowed. This actually changed a lot in study pattern of the students at RMLNLU too.

A research scholar was working on Honour Killing. She came to me and said sir how to access newspapers and use them. Immediately I gave a demonstration on online search of news items. I also trained her on citing methods and also shown her ‘How to use the print version of the newspapers too’.Students used to visit us with Turnitin similarity index issues. We always helped them in the understanding of bibliography, references, and citations. We do not make repositories of their papers because we would like to give them every opportunity to improve as many times as they need and allowed to check plagiarism. It develops research skills and reading habits in them. A team of students was working on an International Moot Court Competition. They needed a book, but it was not feasible to purchase the book at that point of time. I searched it and found it was with one of the NLU. I requested the book to the respective NLU and assistance was given to the students. Luckily, that team won the competition. To help the scholars we, the Madhu Limaye Library team make every possible effort.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: What have you most enjoyed about being a librarian and a law librarian in particular?

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: The contribution to the research activities, is most satisfying feeling being as a librarian. Only the Librarian may understand the academic research requirement of the young minds and teachers and to bridge the gap, is the most valuable effort of the Librarian. Law Librarian is quite a specialized librarianship. Sometimes, students face some problems in understanding the case laws published in various case law reporters, at this stage a Law Librarian may be useful in a great way. I feel happy and satisfied when young law teachers and students take my help in drafting proposals, understanding plagiarism related issues and UGC regulations, etc. They look forward to the library for any help, not only for assistance in searching and finding the desired information but they also look forward to us for organizing various academic programs. I extend my services to the Law Department of other Universities in developing Law Libraries which gives me immense pleasure too.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: What aspects of library work have you found most challenging?

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: To replicate the image of the library among Administrators and teachers that 'the Library is a working day and night' is the most challenging task. They have to understand that the LIS profession is beyond issue/return of books. This is one of the activity only. Library professionals are doing a lot from information management to dissemination and automation and digitization for its patrons' comfort and ease. They have great organizational potential. This is the reason they are organizing academic programmes in large scale.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: If I am asked about the main cause of why our profession is facing so many problems, I would say the cause lies in roots from where the foundation of the profession made. Do you agree with me?

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: Agree with that.

The practical exposure is not given at BLIB and MLIB course. The working librarians should be engaged during classroom teaching. It will help to develop skilled professionals. The syllabi of the courses should be revised every year. You see in private organizations, most of them only used to bargain for salary and do not take care of qualified and good professionals. Unskilled LIS professionals often agreed to work at any salary package. The associations are not competent enough to address the rights of LIS professionals. Because of inadequate representations of LIS professionals at national level LIS associations. The distance and open mode of courses are also a problem. Because they are not setting the standards. Only IGNOU is doing something good in providing education through distance mode. Therefore, the Distance education system should be taken care of. The Masters' programme of professional courses should be run through the full-time mode or the number of seats should be restricted. If University/College Librarian cadre is allowed to teach practical courses in the departments, this shall be more effective and useful.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: You have an inborn quality. According to your friends “बाजपेई सर एक अच्छे वक़्ता के साथ ही साथ एक उम्दाँ कवि भी हैं”, your poems are very simple, understandable but very touching. When did you start and how?

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: hahaha.... Thank you for your kind words. You can say. ये तो इत्तिफाक था, ठीक वैसे ही जैसे मुहब्बत होनी हो अगर तो आँखे चार हो ही जाती हैं |

Not very sure but, I started writing poems during BLIS or MLIS course in 1999-2000. Due to the scarcity of funds, I used to travel through Jhansi-Kanpur Passenger train from Kanpur to Jhansi and vice versa. During these journeys, one day, I observed something and composed instantly ....

भारत दी ट्रेन में,

‘भारत’ सवार था,

जो खड़े थे,

बैठों को सहयोग का उपदेश देते,

कभी इधर, कभी उधर की गुंजाइश लेते|

अब ट्रेन बीच राह में पहुंची है,

जो खड़े थे अब वो बैठ गए हैं,

कुछ आ कर फिर खड़े हो गए हैं,

यथार्थ-सत्यार्थ कहने वाले,

स्वार्थ में लिप्त हो गए हैं,

सहयोग भूल भ्रष्ट हो गए हैं |

अब उनके लिए कोई जगह नहीं है,

जो अभी आये और खड़े हैं,

क्यूँ कि –

स्वार्थ की मिट्टी में पनपते हैं,

स्वार्थ को खाते हैं और,

स्वार्थ में पलते हैं, और

निस्वार्थ की बातें करते हैं |

ट्रेन मंजिल पर आ पहुंची है,

पर ‘भारत’ वहीँ स्वार्थ के बीच खड़ा है,

निःस्वार्थ !!!

***मनु***20.08.2001

The journey of composing poems started from there only.

Earlier, I was not planning as such to publish my poems in the form of a book. Now, I have close to 50-60 poems and my friends have suggested me to publish them. Therefore, I may try to publish them.

Planning to bring them under a Blog.... named as LibPOETeeNaama or any...

Other than poems I used to write LIS related articles for API purposes... ha.ha.ha.ha.

I used to sometime narrate stories but not yet penned.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: In 2011 your views were “Be practical rather be emotional”. Is Maneesh Bajpai is still the same? If yes, why is it so? If no, please share the reasons behind the same.

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: oh... I am failing to recall the incident what was the context for which I said this. As we all are human beings, sometimes we mix emotions with our professional life. The law and regulations say something but emotionally it can't be possible. Therefore, my Idea is not to mix both aspects everywhere and every time.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: How is Maneesh in his personal life? What’s something most of the others do not know about him?

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: In personal life... Maneesh believes in simplicity and passionate to work. If I can help somebody, I can do that. Friends and family members call me only MANU. Rest they only may say what I am for them. Favorite time pass is sparing time with friends, family, and playing cricket. People around me do not know that I sometimes write poems also.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: For library students and young librarians that might be interested in going into librarianship in a specialized area like law, what advice would you have?

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: I believe that fundamental knowledge of the LIS field along with ICT and software skills is an integral part of Librarianship. If they are going to join in law librarianship or another specialized stream of librarianship, they must understand that subject field and basic nomenclature of that subject domain. During their course, they may try to work in some libraries on Sundays or holidays. It will help them to understand the practical functioning of the libraries and to get benefits from the experienced LIS professionals.

Dr. Preeti Sharda: Thank you so much for sparing your valuable time for the Interview. I really appreciate the promptness of the replies. Anything you want to share from your side?

Dr. Maneesh Bajpai: First of all, I would like to thank you for choosing me for your prestigious blog. I never thought about the same. It was a great experience to interact with such an innovative LIS professional. Meeting with people like you, always boost me to work much harder. I am trying to contribute a little to make a positive image of LIS professionals among other professionals. The ultra-modern library and its quick services are the replicas of the team of dedicated LIS professionals and advisors.

Thank You, again for your kind considerations.

वक्त जो संवारते रहे तेरे ख्वाब के लिए ए ज़िन्दगी,
जा के अब इल्म हुआ, तमाम वक्त जाया हुआ तेरे ख्वाब में।।
***मनु***08/05/2019

(Disclaimer: I conducted this interview through email. I am Dr. Preeti Sharda working as a Librarian, the Regional Institute of English, Chandigarh. It was an amazing experience. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Bajpai for sparing time from his busy schedule. Since Dr. Bajpai is a poet also, I have taken five lines from his poems in the interview itself. Interacting with professionals like him always make you feel that hard work in the right direction at the right time is the only key to success).

Sh Pardeep Rattan:The Optimistic Librarian

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 14:51:00 +0000

Interviewer: Dr Preeti Sharda

Sh Pardeep Rattan works as a college librarian since 1993 and is stationed at Govt. College, Phase VI, SAS Nagar- Mohali, Punjab. He is a man with a golden heart. Whenever I meet him he has a broad and beautiful smile on his face. He is always positive in his thoughts and actions. He takes life as it comes. In his own words “I always try to have a sanguine face towards events of life”. A great friend, a colleague and a superb mentor for his student and co-workers. He works very hard for the profession and also at his workplace but in a very silent mode. His presence makes others feel comfortable and have a feeling of togetherness. In his present workplace, he is recognized as the most accessible and dependable person of the college. He is very much connected to his roots, and he is a down-to-earth person.

A librarian by chances has also done an MA in Geography. He completed his MLIS degree in which he stood second in the merit of Panjab University, Chandigarh. He qualified his UGC-NET for JRF in the first attempt. He joined his present position in 2010 and has converted a two classrooms library into a beautiful, functional library within two years of his joining enabled with E-resources and Wi-Fi facility. He has also facilitated interlibrary loan with the District Library Mohali and arranges the required documents for faculty and students which are not available in the library on a reciprocal basis. He was kind enough to answer some of my questions about his library career and the skills he uses in his current role.

Interview

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please tell us a little about your background?

Sh Pardeep Rattan: Hmm…I am born and brought up in a very modest and self-made family, modest in the sense when there are self-centeredness and materialism all around. Many in our relatives still look towards my family for support and my family always try to provide moral support and compensate in kind as asked. Many times my father had to go to our ancestral village Jindalpur from his office at Punjab Civil Secretariat after attending evening classes at Evening College, PU for family obligations. Originally, I belong to Tehsil Nabha, District Patiala in Punjab but since my birth, I am fortunate to stay with my parents at Chandigarh. My parents prepared me to stare into the challenges and hardships of life as they would confront us during the journey in different tones and tenor. My family is still connected to roots at village Jindalpur. I always try to have a sanguine face towards events of life. I completed my education from Panjab University, Chandigarh where I did my Masters in Geography and Library Science. My professional journey as librarian started in 1992 from Regional Engineering College, Jalandhar now upgraded to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar National Institute of Technology. I also worked with CRRID in National Family Health Survey for the state of Himachal Pradesh in 1992.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please elaborate on the story of "7 FRUITS".

Sh Pardeep Rattan: Ha..ha..ha. Let me first congratulate you for the research that you have done in uncovering some stories that are really close to my heart and not many in my inner circle know about these. The story of “7 Fruits” is a story of seven friends (nicknamed Shah Ji, Fauji, Dhakel, Pinta, Tull, Kambal Singh, and Broiler), who got connected at the Department of Geography, Panjab University, Chandigarh. All from different family backgrounds, regions, and cultures but what was common among them was the spirit of togetherness, truthfulness and helping nature even costing their own interests sometimes. As one seeks rewards, appreciation or fruit of hard work these 7 friends were called 7 FRUITS because of their selfless service to all in the department. They could be found in any corner of University at different times full of life and joy- be at the Student center, Chunni Lal’s canteen at Physics Deptt., Law Ground, Boys’ and Girls’ hostels and of course University market in the evening (like that plum-like fruit trees that are lined up all along the University roads). The name of this the group was given by our classmates. 7 fruits are still together like chips of the same block. Our juniors at the department in the farewell function added another angle to this group by renaming it–“7 fruits and 15 flowers” (15 girls who always felt like a family with us whenever we were out for a picnic or study tour). And the fact is fruits add glow, energy, vigor and quality life years to one’s life.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You completed B.A. with Honours in Geography scoring 61% marks and M.A. in Geography with 60% marks. When didn’t you thought to pursue a career in geography only? What was your first awareness of the role of a librarian? How did you choose to pursue it as a career?

Sh Pardeep Rattan: Very aptly asked- what made me a librarian? Frankly, it is by accident and not by the first choice. During Masters in Geography, I qualified SSB at Clement Town, Dehradun for entry into Indian Air Force as Pilot Officer, but I could not make it to a final All India merit list. After my MA in Geography, I got the admission in the School of Planning at GNDU Amritsar but because of political turmoil in Punjab at that time, I could not submit my fee. I came back to Panjab University Chandigarh and got the admission in the Department of Library Science with a view to avail library facilities for preparing some bigger competitive exam. But the timetable, the atmosphere of the department, my performance and above all urge to get into a job as early as possible forced me to complete my MLIS degree in which I stood second in order of University merit. While in the 2nd semester of MLIS I qualified UGC-NET for JRF and after completion of the degree, I immediately got a job at REC Jalandhar.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You are working as the Librarian at Govt. College, Mohali since 2010. What major changes you have brought after you joined this college? Please provide a piece of brief information about your previous work experiences.

Sh Pardeep Rattan: I entered in a Government job in 1998 at Government College, Rupnagar (Ropar) Punjab. In 2010 I joined Govt. College, SAS Nagar (Mohali). I could convert two classrooms (where a library was dumped) into a basic functional library after two years of my joining at the college with the support of the then Principal, college council and library lovers. Then I created a little space for readers where the library is running its activities. I am serving an institution where 80% input is of rural students. I introduced the college library to them, made it functional, provided E-resources links of NMEICT on the college website, made the provision of Wi-Fi and as per Punjab Govt. Instructions the library automation is underway with the software ‘E Granthalaya’. Before joining Government sector I had worked at REC Jalandhar and Doaba College Jalandhar.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You are famous for your dedication, friendliness and positive attitude in your college. What are the unique ways you build relationships and connect with staff and students?

Sh Pardeep Rattan: You are never complete if you are not networked- electronically, socially and morally. In a well-knit institutional society, you are always working in tandem with the institutional goals and achieve those goals through teamwork. I think If you can be a leader, fine enough and if not be a follower. Go back to your memory lane and identify the problems that you faced as a student. The problems of today and yesteryears are more or less similar. So when you play the role of a torchbearer, listen patiently to the grievances of students you cannot escape the radar of a cognitive sense of students. You are judged & looked at from a different angle and you are automatically connected to the cause of students and these are the students only which are the greatest asset of an institution. Besides this genuine participation and advice when asked, in different student welfare, staff, and institutional committees also added to an ability of good conduct with my institution.

Dr Preeti Sharda: We are all learning. No one gets it right every time. A more compassionate attitude toward ourselves only helps us to stay in the game. The dynamic process of life—trying, succeeding, failing, and trying again—is the only way to develop lasting confidence in ourselves. Please share stories of your success, failures, and challenges you faced in your life.

Sh Pardeep Rattan: I feel, as a librarian to create your own respectable space is the greatest challenge any librarian faces. It is beyond doubts that learning is a continuous process but learning comes only when we are consistent in our approach towards an issue. I joined Prep Medical in 1983 but fortunately failed in the final exams. Thinking that I was not meant for science stream I switched to Arts and never looked back what happened and why? Throughout I got the first division, stood second in MLIS in University, qualified UGC-NET in the 2nd semester of MLIS and joined a job. My point to sharing all this is that we should not get dishearten every time we do not get the desired results. We must try Plan 'B' to 'Z' if plan 'A' fails at any stage of life. Water is precious for life but even stagnant water stinks after some time. Life teaches us continuity and we should always be ready to move on.

Dr Preeti Sharda: If someone asks you, who is Pardeep Rattan. How will you describe yourself? What are your strengths and what are your weaknesses? Please introduce your funny side also.

Sh Pradeep Rattan: It is a difficult question to answer. The circumstances, your reactions to them, your balance of life and your friends may define you the best. Since you have asked ‘who is Pardeep Rattan’, I would say he is simple, accessible and a friend.

Dr Preeti Sharda: If you could go back in time and do part of your career or education over again, is there something you would have changed? A class you would have taken? A missed opportunity?

Sh Pardeep Rattan: I believe the opportunity you are looking for only knocks once at the door but it seems also true that one must take a certain count over an uncertain opportunity. Although I am satisfied with the extent with my present role internally, I feel I could have been a teacher who would be remembered for generations.

Dr Preeti Sharda: What “keeps you busy” these days in the field? What projects are you working on? What do you like best about your work as a library professional?

Sh Pardeep Rattan: If you are able to grow professionally that is a sort of compensation or satisfaction for anyone. Librarianship these days has a vast canvas, and it is very difficult to paint in the colors of everybody’s liking. The customer is the king and you cannot bargain with a king. Libraries are always incomplete in collection and services. As a library professional, I like to strengthen the libraries at the grassroots levels (schools) in terms of inculcating reading habits among readers because if library foundation is strong only when the purpose of establishing libraries is justified. I am also associated with the Regional Institute of Education, Ajmer, and MAGSIPA, Punjab for training the school librarians. I am a member of the organizing committee of ICDT 2019 to be held at the Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law. To update myself on the professional front, I try to take part, present and publish my research work related to the field of library science.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You once said "Librarians have to take care of books. It is such a sorry state of affairs that libraries in many government colleges of Punjab are being taken care of by peons. The post of a librarian is at par with the college lecturer, but the state government is least bothered about recruiting new staff." (the Tribune, Oct 29, 2013). Do you think situations have changed today?

Sh Pradeep Rattan: As said earlier I joined Government service in 1998 and since then the library system and set up in Govt. colleges and Public libraries in Punjab are not very encouraging. The human resources, infrastructure, and financial needs all need immediate relief for the existence of the libraries.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Being Vice President of the Punjab Librarians' Association what efforts did you put in to improve the condition of professionals in Punjab?

Sh Pardeep Rattan: The association with PCLA- Punjab College Librarians’ Association provided a platform where the professional issues are discussed at a length with an open mind and without any inhibitions. As the ex-General Secretary and the present Vice President, with the collective efforts of all cadres, PCLA is trying to implement the Punjab Library Act. Also, the issues directly related with fellow librarians are taken up with the authorities concerned and are resolved in a given time.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Do you have any tips for other librarians and information managers?

Sh Pardeep Rattan: Respect time. Manage yourself first. Bloom wherever you are planted. Keep updating yourself. Create your own space because of your multitasking capabilities. Thanks.

(Disclaimer: I conducted this interview through email. I am Preeti Sharda working as a Librarian of the Regional Institute of English, Chandigarh. As he said he is really a simple human being, who is easily accessible and a true friend to trust on. I personally feel that people like him can paint the world with beautiful colors. Thank you, sir, for sparing time for the interview).

Dr Rishi K. Tiwari: A Librarian a with Different Mind Set

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Sun, 24 Feb 2019 07:14:00 +0000

Dr Rishi K. Tiwari: A Librarian a with Different Mind-Set

Interviewer: Dr Preeti Sharda

Dr Rishi K. Tiwari is working as Head Librarian at Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH), Greater Noida, UP. He has done Master’s and Doctorate degree in Library and Information Science from Jiwaji University, Gwalior. Dr Tiwari, a well-known name in the Library Science professional circle and has organized various conferences and workshops. He has published 24 research papers and 4 books and also guiding and supervising scholars of Library and Information Science in their research work. With 24 years of professional experience, Dr Tiwari facilitates various activities of rehabilitation of jail inmates and underprivileged poor girls near Delhi-NCR. He is the founder Secretary of Ranganathan Society for Social Welfare and Library Development. He has visited London, France, Netherland, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal and Muscat for his professional engagements. His areas of interest are Leadership, Team Building, Library Automation and Digitization. He works for the promotion of Open Source Softwares of Library Automation and Digitization. Dr Tiwari is an active member of various organizations such as Indian Library Association (ILA), Management Library Network, Royal Institute of Management (RIM), Bhutan. He is an office bearer of ILA with the capacity of a Member of Executive Council and Treasurer for the period of 2013 to 2015. At present, he is the Vice- President of Indian Library Association.

Dr Tiwari is bearing the responsibilities of BIMTECH Foundation with the capacity of Chief Executive Officer. The Ministry of Culture, GoI nominated him, as a member of “National Selection Committee” for the Tagore Fellowship. One of the most prestigious and powerful committees of the India Government.

Dr Rishi Tiwari is a dedicated and hardworking Librarian. He considers his responsibilities more than just organizing or shelving books. He is a community educator, organizer and innovator while enhancing his creativity in how has benefited the community and his workplaces. He has proved that being a librarian has so much to offer. He can share his librarian skills, be it at problem-solving, researching, retrieving, or information literacy, to the patrons. That’s why we are here for, to serve and fulfill the community needs.

Interview

Dr Preeti Sharda: What made you think you should become a librarian?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: Frankly, I wanted to make my career in Defence and the second choice was journalism, but during those days, there were very few opportunities and limited seats in the university. The financial condition of my parents was not so sound that’s why I had to take private tuitions to bear my study and day-to-day expenses. Once I visited my friend who was a librarian of District Public Library in UP. I got very impressed with the Library and its collection. My friend guided me on how to pursue a career in the LIS profession. I applied for admission to Jiwaji University and in the third counseling; I got the admission. That’s how the journey in a new direction started.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You did your Ph.D. in Library and Information Science from Jiwaji University, Gwalior, in 2008, the area of your research was unusual. the topic was “Research Productivity Analysis using International Political Science Abstract Database: A Study”. Please share how you choose this area for research?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: After completion of MLIS, I got enrolled for PhD in 1996 but don’t know why routine things have never attracted me. Those days there were very limited areas in which most of the studies were revolving. I was not very much convinced, so I dropped continuing my research work. After working for almost 10 years, I got little ideas and came in the contact of few very eminent professionals and on the advice of seniors I again enrolled for research with a new topic. So you can give the credit to some of my well-wishers for this are, if you feel that ‘topic is unusual’.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You are in the LIS profession since 1995 and you joined your present position in 2005. Please tell us about your previous work experience.

Dr Rishi Tiwari: As I shared with you, I wanted to make my career in Defence/ Army, so just after completing my MLIS, I joined Rastriya Sahara Newspaper in Noida, but couldn’t survive. Then I worked in one of the renowned school of Delhi for a year. In 1996, I returned to my hometown Gwalior as I got a job in the Army Education Library. So again I went to Gwalior. But because of some unavoidable circumstances, I couldn’t cope up with the then Brigadier and ultimately left the job. For a year I took a marketing job again in 2001. From 2001 to June 2005 I worked in an engineering college of Gwalior.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Under your supervision, how the library of Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) has evolved?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: I will never say under my supervision. It is always teamwork. I am very fortunate that I always had a fantastic and energetic team. I can only say when I joined this prestigious organization, the total collection was only 9000/ with the total annual budget of Rs 4,00,000 and no automation or digitalization and no electronic databases. Today BIMTECH library is one of the richest libraries in Delhi NCR. Our annual budget is over one Cr now. And more of that the management and the leadership matters a lot. Here I am lucky enough that I got an opportunity to work under Dr H. Chaturvedi, who is known for his leadership and team building. He is actually my mentor, and he has given me free hands to work and wings to fly.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Depending on the size of your institution, the role of a librarian may include additional roles or specialize in just one of these. Please describe each of the areas individually.

Dr Rishi Tiwari: BIMTECH is one of the best PGDM/Management colleges in India, rather we come in the top 10 private B-Schools of the country. Most of us perform more than one role. If I talk about my role in the institute, apart from librarianship, there are any areas where I am involved, to name the major works are: Member of Core Team of Purchase Committee; Proctor-Students Welfare; Faculty Incharge of Sports; PR with Local Authority and Police Administration; CEO- Biotech Foundation and Incharge of BIMTECH Outreach Activities.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You are a librarian, a teacher, a researcher, a writer and a mentor. Which of the following role you enjoy the most? Also, specify why is it so?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: Now at this age, I really love to work for society and, for the development of the LIS sector because working for a deprived sector gives different energy and positivity. Coming to your question my answer would be a writer and a mentor. Because when you have to mentor someone, read more and have to be more ethical and have to keep your knowledge up to date. I want to write a lot but seriously; I am not a good writer, but want to be…...

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please tell briefly about your research project titled “Development of Research Project Database Management System”.

Dr Rishi Tiwari: One wing of DRDO helps academic institutions/ universities in conducting research, organizing seminar/conferences by giving them financial grants. In 2009, I also got a grant. While interacting with the Director of DRDO and his team I came to know that the office was keeping the record manually and there was no proper mechanism to keep track. I proposed them one idea to make a proper database of all the projects which are being sanctioned by the office. This way I got this project and now DRDO office is maintaining its database record with the help of that DMS only.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You are a storehouse of innovative ideas and you are implementing those ideas one by one. Please explain the concept of Workshop on Wheels.

Dr Rishi Tiwari: hahahhahahahhahah…... I shared in my other question also that I do not enjoy in routine jobs or performing the things in a routine way. I love and enjoy doing the same things differently. For the last 14 years, we care about conducting workshops for LIS Professionals. This year I got an AC full sized and well-equipped bus from HP. You can call it a mobile learning lab with 21 computers. So when my team reminded me to launch the workshop for this year, immediately the idea of conducting the event in the Mobile Learning Lab with 20 participants only, came in mind. The idea was readily accepted by many funding bodies as well.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You have been awarded the ILA S.M. Ganguly Best School Library Award for 2003, ILA Promoter Award for 2008, SATKAL Young Librarian Award 2013, Commonwealth Fellowship 2014 and AIMS International Outstanding Management Library Award 2014. You are also the recipient of ‘India CSR Dr. Velaga Memorial for Innovative Library Services’, a prestigious award for extraordinary work in the field of library services with ‘out of box’ thinking in 2017. Recently you were conferred with ‘Distinguished Service Award’ during the LIBRARIAN LEADERSHIP SUMMIT held at Symbiosis Law School, NOIDA on September 15th, 2018. Does winning an award boost your career?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: We all are human beings and everyone likes appreciation and recognition. Only thing is that the level keeps on changing and one should be very careful at the time of receiving an award and applying for the award. nowadays or day by day even in our profession it has become “give & take” culture. That’s why I hardly apply for an award or go to any conference/ seminar.

But yes, any appreciation or recognition for your good work boosts up to do something better.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please share your experience at the University of East London in 2014.

Dr Rishi Tiwari: It was fantastic and lifetime achievement. Being a librarian of a private B-Schools and getting Commonwealth Professional Fellowship meant a lot for me. My involvement in community support helped me for selection and it has helped me a lot to improve me, personally and professionally.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You are a member of various organizations such as Indian Library Association (ILA), Management Library Network, Royal Institute of Management (RIM), Bhutan. You were even associated with ILA as an executive member not once but twice. Do you think ILA which is a national association, working efficiently for the overdevelopment of libraries and library professionals of India?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: Controversial question. I am personally not satisfied with my contribution to ILA as an office bearer. At present also I am in the office of ILA with the capacity of Rise President.

The answer to your question is Yes and NO, both. On some fronts, ILA has done a good job but on some fronts, the contribution of ILA is negligible. But in the end, we have to understand the reason behind this.

As elections are scheduled it will not be good to speak much on this topic but yes I have to say a lot on this topic. If you feel comfortable, we can have a special session on this topic only.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You are also a member of around 25 organizing committee for National and International Conferences. Do you think events like these can help in the continuous professional development of library professionals?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: Yes... Professionals get a platform for knowledge creation, dissemination, sharing of views, presentations, interactions and networking and they get an outing from routine work…

Dr Preeti Sharda: You are the founder secretary of Ranganathan Society for Social Welfare and Library Development (RSSWLD). How the campaign started?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: In 2009, we declared an event in association with Jiwaji University Gwalior and during that time the idea came to form an NGO to scale up the activities. I shared this idea with some of my friends and as usual, they all gave their consent… So again the credit goes to my friends, not me.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Please tell us about the BIMTECH Pustakalaya project? Is it the part of Ranganathan Society for Social Welfare & Library Development?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: Ranganathan Society and Bimtech, both are working together and for each other. And now “Bimtech Foundation” has also come. BIMTECH is the main funding agency and Ranganathan society is the project implementation CSR arm of BIMTECH.

Dr Preeti Sharda: You are pioneer behind establishment 9 rural libraries, 7 prison libraries and one library at a temple. It won’t be an easy task. What were the difficulties you faced during the establishment of these libraries?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: Please allow me to correct the data. As of now, we have established 12 rural libraries, 4 computer centers, 11 prison libraries in 10 prisons, 3 toy libraries and one library in an Ashram. 210 rural girls have been adopted in Neemka Village of Gautam Buddha District under the project ‘Protsahan -Chiraiya'.

Whenever you will start something new and different, be ready to face many challenges and difficulties. Many times you fail as well. Out of 12 rural libraries and 4 computer centres, only one rural library is now operational. Sometimes your colleague criticizes you, sometimes your seniors are not happy, complaints by family members are a few of the problems. But on the other side, there are always new doors open for you. So my learning is that if you have a passion for something for society, all these difficulties make you more strong and energetic….

Dr Preeti Sharda: The Society has also automated about 10 libraries of various schools, colleges and institutions. What kind of help does society provide in the process of automation?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: We are helping by providing them Open source software.

Dr Preeti Sharda: The Society celebrated Library Week from time to time. Which activities were done during this week? Since 2017 there is no update about the Celebration on the website. Have you stopped the event? If yes, what were the reasons for this discontinuation?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: No, we have not stopped. We are celebrating all these activities regularly. only thing is that activities are increasing and we are in a shortage of manpower. We all working on a volunteering basis.

Actually, to keep the jail inmates engaged these activities, help a lot.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Library automation and digitization requires a lot of money to create and its maintenance. Open source software reduces cost. Open Source software provides free source code, simple customization, and growing user community. What are your views about the use of Open Source Softwares of Library Automation and Digitization?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: I strongly believe that libraries and library professionals should come forward and use open source software. It not only reduces the cost but also give you a lot of confidence.

Dr Preeti Sharda: What are some most satisfying and least satisfying aspects of your job?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: While doing library work I am engaged in many other works and especially CSR activities; all these things satisfy me a lot.

I wanted to become a good writer and a good orator, somehow that I have not achieved…. That is really, always a point of dissatisfaction.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Librarianship definitely seems to be an under-respected profession in India. Do you think the attitude towards this profession needs to change if education will do what it needs to do for students? What are things you wish more people understand about this profession?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: I think if I will give my views frankly, you will also criticize me. So better to leave this question.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Given the increasing prevalence of online tools, do you think there will come a day when librarians are no longer needed? What activities you do for the promotion of books and reading habits?

Dr Rishi Tiwari: Reading habit is decreasing like anything and especially in the north and central India. When the faculty is not interested in reading, how can you expect from students? Society always asks these questions from the librarians that what will you do to inculcate the reading habits and the frank reply is that librarian can only create an ecosystem and that’s also up to an extent. Footfall in the libraries is decreasing not only in India but this is a global trend now.

As far as this profession is concerned, I don't think a big change will be there but yes their work pattern will change time to time.

(Disclaimer: I conducted this interview through email. I am Dr Preeti Sharda working as a Librarian of the Regional Institute of English, Chandigarh. It was an amazing experience. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr Rishi Tiwari for sparing time from his busy schedule. Interacting with professionals like him always makes you more motivated to work hard).

Dr Lata Suresh: A Multifaceted Librarian

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 09:19:00 +0000

Dr Lata Suresh: A Multifaceted Librarian

Interviewer: Dr Preeti Sharda

Dr Lata Suresh is the Head of Knowledge Resource Centre with a professional experience of more than 25 years in her portfolio. Dr Lata Suresh is PhD from University of Pune, MBA, MPhil, MLISc, M.A (Sociology), and did her Advanced Diploma in IT and E-Commerce Technology. She is responsible for overall management of KRC, like administration, budgeting, developing the KRC tools and techniques, Programmes, coordination in all phases of day-to-day operations, training, supervising, evaluating the services, effective and efficient functioning of the KRC systems, extensive interaction with all departments and Schools with creative leadership, vision, and direction. She has represented in all professional activities, internationally, nationally, regionally and locally. She has also integrated advances in information technology to support the academic Programmes of the institutes she worked with. She has created, trained and developed E-Library Portals using Open Source software. She is selected as Influencer among 100 women faces during the launch of womenenovator 2019 during the programme held at PHD Chamber of Commerce, New delhi.

Dr Lata Suresh has an amazing ability to move forward and lead her team on all kind of situations that too with a smile on her face. She is an avid reader and this is one of the best qualities one can possess. Dr Lata is capable of creating networks and long-lasting relationships, which are very essential in today's business environments. She has an exceptional ability to develop, structure and present technical concepts in a very pedagogical and interesting fashion. She possesses remarkable qualities of decision making and leadership and seeks the best ways to optimize the educational opportunities that are given to her. A very good researcher, highly adaptable to very different contexts, she constantly strives to be a true actor of her education and to enhance her qualities as a professional. She is a valuable individual to any organization and I wholeheartedly endorse her in whatever she endeavours.

Dr Preeti Sharda: Native of Andhra Pradesh, born and brought up in Jaipur, the Pink City. Please “Walk me through your background”.

Dr Lata Suresh: My great grandparents were from South India and they gradually settled in Rajasthan. My father did his schooling from Ajmer, Rajasthan and graduation from Maharaja College, Jaipur. I was born and brought up in Jaipur. I did my schooling from Kendriya Vidyalaya & graduation and post-graduation from Rajasthan University. After my graduation, I started working with Santokba Durlabhji Memorial Hospital, Jaipur in 1993 and continued working in Jaipur till 2001. Before joining my current position, I also worked as Manager-Library at IIHMR University till 2011, where I developed LMS and Institutional Repository using open source software GSDL. That was the time when I learnt about doing Research, writing technical papers, application of open source software etc. I have learned the maximum from my co colleagues at IIHMR and I am really thankful to them. I closely worked as Asst Editor for “Journal of Health Management” a Sage publication with late Prof Udai Pareek who is also known as the father of HRD in India. Since 2011 I am working at IICA an Institute under the aegis of Ministry of Corporate Affairs at Manesar, Gurugram.

PS: In your interview with Doordarshan you said that working at Santokba Durlabhji Memorial Hospital (SDMH), Jaipur for a temporary job took away your career from an administrative officer to a librarian. What were the main reasons for such a transformation?

LS: After completion of my graduation I was preparing to appear for competitive exams. I was also learning typing and computers also. One morning my mother, who was working as an administrative officer at SDMH, asked me if I was interested in a part-time administrative position at SDMH. I accepted and submitted my resume. After going through a written test and interview I got selected. After some time, I was asked to look after the library also. To be very honest like a layman, I was also under the impression that a librarian’s job is just to issue and return the books, hence I accepted. In due course of time, my part-time job was converted into a full-time job. This was the turning point of my professional life. I came to know that Library Science is one of the faculty and many Universities are offering degree courses in this subject. However, the more I worked, the more it made sense. I started doing BLIS course from IGNOU through correspondence as I was engrossed in completing my MA in Sociology and taking computers and singing classes. In addition to attending PCP classes regularly, I also took special tuitions to prepare for BLIS which gave me a good foundation sound theoretical background. My mentors guided me in all the aspects of Library Science and that is how I got acquainted with this profession. During this period, I attended a few seminars also in the field of LIS. In my writing skills were also improved while working in the hospital library. I got acquainted with Internet surfing also.

I feel blessed for this opportunity because during my tenure at SDMH I got an opportunity to work with some of the renowned doctors of India. In due course of time, I learnt MEDLINE and I used to do searches for the doctors who used to come to the library for research. These doctors considered me as a very young colleague and helped me to understand the new medical terms. My other colleagues would often ask that how I was so comfortable with such senior doctors and I used to tell them that when they come for my assistance, I am their doctor as they need my help to get access to the required information (just a joke). Helping others be a colleague, friend or relative has always motivated me the most. There are times when people around you need some help and I relish this kind of opportunities. It boosts my confidence and belief that I could be of some help. This motivation has transformed me and my journey as a librarian started. I would like to quote an incident here that once one of a nursing student asked my mother “Are you the mother of Lata mam”. My mom was so surprised that her daughter was being recognised for her work in such a short period of time. She used to narrate this incident to everyone that what she was not able to do in 30 years of her service at SDMH, Lata has done it in less than 3 years.

PS: You received the Best Singer Award in 1989 during your school days and also received a scholarship in vocal music during college days consecutively for 3 years. Did you have any professional training in vocal singing? Why didn’t you peruse your career in vocal singing?

LS: Yes, I opted for Music as a subject during my graduation. I started singing during my schooling. I also got the Best Singer award apart from other prizes in my School. In the residential colony where we used to reside every Saturday, children used to take part in some sort of Cultural activities. During my childhood days, I use to perform on stage. I got training for music from Smt Ruby Chatterjee and Sh Rajeev Bhatt, (Nephew of Padma Shri Pd Vishwa Mohan Bhatt). At my workplace also I took charge of managing cultural and educational events. Actually, music and writing are in my genes. My father who is a great fan of Mukesh used to sing a lot during his college days. He used to write Shayari also with his pen name was “Dard Ajmeri”. My brother (Additional Director, Forensic Science) also a writer (pen name Dr Venkatesh “Nazar”), not only writes short stories, horror stories, Ghazals and Geet but also sings, play the guitar and other instruments also. My cousin (elder sister), used to play the instrument “Sitar” (she retired as Prof and HOD Physics, Rajasthan University). Advancement in this career and making money and performing in front of the crowd is not very easy. You have to be very lucky or extremely talented for this profession. You need a good riyaaz /practice to reach the heights. I am really happy with what I am doing now. I have both the worlds now-I perform and keep my interest alive.

PS: You almost left your vocal singing after your college. After your marriage, you started it again and now a day you are performing live shows also. Why you left vocal singing and how you stated again.

LS: As I said, I never left my singing. Whenever I got an opportunity I use to perform but not in a professional way. Music /Singing is my passion since childhood. After my marriage, I started accompanying my husband during his programmes. I used to manage the stage setting, the list of songs to be sung in an event, the accompanist’s and their sitting arrangements on the stage etc. In one such programme, one of my friends forced me to sing and my husband encouraged me to do so. Thus I started my singing again and I perform with him.

PS: You have 25+ years of work experience in different types of libraries in the various area of Library science. How will you describe your journey?

LS: I would say it's a wonderful journey. Summing up in a para would not justify my journey... anyway will try my best. For me, being a librarian has never been about the books and publications only –it's was about the people! I enjoy connecting people for information. Information is the key to lifelong learning. Libraries are open to all. In my library, I had never stooped any non-member to enter. I am extremely thankful to my professional friends as whenever any kind of help or assistance required they helped/assisted me. As I mentioned I “could not imagine doing anything else.” It still holds true for me today. I like what I do and I haven’t looked back. Each day is something new and I enjoy that. I had met many renowned personalities only because of this profession. I also met my role model, Dr APJ Kalam whose understanding of culture, religion, people, places, emotions and country influenced me a lot. I even exchanged emails with him even if after he became the President. I also met Dr Kiran Bedi who takes her work too seriously even after becoming the Lt Governor of Pondicherry and expects others to follow the same suit. She believes in discipline and in fact, it's one of her principles. I follow her regularly through social sites.

I am being invited as a subject expert by many organisations for conducting interviews. During interviews when I asked the candidates about why choose the LIS field, most of them would reply, it is because of love for the books. I would ask them how many books you have read till now. There would be silence ... I would like to tell my young friends through this forum who are planning for librarianship as their career that this is the toughest job. You have to update your skills every day. You need to be proactive. You need to possess multiple skills like communication, leadership and technical and so on. You also need to have the subject speciality. You should keep updating your knowledge by attending conferences, webinars, reading articles etc. Librarian’s positions focus on all the three aspects of library work i.e. user services, technical services and administrative services. In addition to an MLS degree, librarians working in a special library, like a law or corporate library, usually specialize in the subject of their organization, sometimes by earning a master's, doctoral, or professional degree in the subject. Librarians should participate in continuing education and training to keep abreast with new information systems and technology. I always try my best to be a perfectionist. For me, learning is a continuous process and an all-inclusive one like reading a book, learning music or performing art. I try to learn something new every day. Willing to be a beginner every single morning is what I would prefer.

PS: What is your role in the library of the current organisation - The Knowledge Resource Centre? What are your major contributions to the centre?

LS: At my current institute I am engaged in the following activities:

Setting up a world-class library with systems and services.
Acquiring, preparing and organizing materials and assist users in locating appropriate materials.
Extension of library services to more patrons.
Technical management as well as Administration of the library.
Managing staff, including recruitment, training and/or supervisory duties,
Liaising with departmental academic staff, external organisations and suppliers,
Ensuring that library services meet the needs of particular groups of users.
Supporting independent research and learning developing IT facilities.

Dissemination of knowledge through teaching and outreach, and creative experimentation of ideas and concepts.
Publication of Newsletter, Annual reports MoUs etc.
Coordinating with different departments of IICA, Ministries, PSUs, National Banks, Educational and Business Centres for Research, Training, Teaching etc.
Coordinating and Planning events as Programme Director.

I also got an opportunity to work as Incharge of Hostel, Campus Development and Administration, Public Records Officer, also as the Chairperson of Internal Complaints Committee (Vishakha Committee), Physical Verification of Adm and IT. Staff Grievance Office, Took the Green Plan initiative. I developed LMS and Institutional Repository using open source softwares and many more. Every day is a new day and new learning.

PS: You are a Consultant to several organizations in setting up their information centres, knowledge centre. What kind of consultancy services you provide and how are these organizations benefited from your guidance?

LS: As a consultant, I was invited by a few Universities and Institutions of national importance. I am fortunate that during the initial stage of the Central University of Rajasthan, I was invited as a member of the panel. My main role as a consultant in such libraries is to provide guidance to establish a new library as per the norms recommended by CBSE/ICSE/State Board. UGC etc. I also provide time to time guidance to young library professionals.

PS: You are a multidimensional person who is an author, poet, singer, Professional and a Motivational Speaker. You are the best example of time management. How do you give your best to all the platforms and what are the problems you face being a multidimensional personality?

LS: My biggest motivation is my family. They are my biggest source of inspiration and my strongest supporters also. When I see my parent’s dedication towards hard work I am motivated to be like them. They are self-motivated individuals. Hence I try to imbibe their positivism into my life. I have learned not to give up even if in the difficult situation, honesty and integrity for the profession from my father. My mother is the source of calm confidence and big support for me. Knowing exactly where to push hard and where to slow down is something I have imbibed from her. They are my actual strength when I feel weak or less motivated. Success is what motivates me to give my best. I believe that my hard work and perseverance will help me achieve greater professional success and this keeps me going. Following the correct path encourages me to push more. Hence, for me, success is important both at personal as well as professional level. Access to top management is a highly motivating factor. I like to have a non-rigid and accommodating approach to life. I am a multitasker and it comes directly from my genes. During my sessions on Motivational subjects, I always tell my young professional friends and students that everything can be achieved in life if your goals are set and you are dedicated to doing hard work. Nothing is impossible in this world. Everything is achievable. If I can do anybody can do.

PS: Foundation of each of these kinds of fields requires a genuine mentor. Kindly provide a brief introduction of some of your mentors?

LS: Having a person above you who is willing to sit and discuss things is highly motivating. Gaining work-related knowledge is also important. A mentor can teach you tricks of the trade which would go a long way to enhance your career. I have many mentors but no Godfather. For me every individual from whom I gain something is my mentor, it may be a young chap or an experienced and elderly professional. I am a good observer and a good student. Whenever and wherever there is something new, that interest me I love to learn. That is the reason that I could able to get these degrees. I recently completed my MBA in Finance and HR with first class marks i.e “A” grade. I still feel I am in a learning process and ready to learn any good thing that interests me.

PS: This is one of your Facebook posts: “I'm fortunate enough to have bosses who supported the actions I took and were willing to let me try new things because they believed that I can accomplish them”. If you really mean these words, then you are really fortunate. Please give us some details.

LS: I am fortunate enough that I had worked with the organizations that have opted an open door policy. Most of my organizations had a flat structure which promoted peer to peer learning and encouraged feedback which was /is a big plus for me. A highly bureaucratic organization is not something I look forward to. I always wanted to work at a responsible position that enabled me to utilize my talents and work closely with my colleagues in solving important problems. I always see myself taking new and exciting challenges in an enjoyable way. I used to do many creative and innovative things and it’s my way of learning and doing things. This has also helped me to not to get bored by the same routine work life. All my bosses encouraged me in my professional career.

PS: You are the recipient of many National and International Awards that also includes Women Innovator award 2018 and Ideal Womaniya National Award 2018. How these awards have motivated you to work hard towards the profession?

LS: The idea that I might provide a solution to someone’s problem is what motivates me to do a good job. To understand and empathize with people is crucial. You do not want to make them feel inferior or incapable of solving their own problems. I simply try to show them an alternate and less resistance path as a solution to their difficulty. This not only makes them feel better but also allows them to introspect and to think logically. I try to be positive always. This allows me to instill the same optimism onto others when they need it the most. Lending a helping hand is about making the person feel upbeat, energetic and positive. As a leader, it is imperative that you trust your team members and support them. It is also important to create synergy from their individual capabilities. In all such awards, I was nominated by someone else. I never applied to my own in the first instance.

PS: Please share your 2012 SLA experience.

LS: I was selected for SLA Asian Professional Award. My SLA experience was published in SLA Asian Chapter Newsletter (Vol 8 No 2 year 2012) and would like to share that with you again. I was a bit stunned when I learned about my nomination. I was feeling as fortunate as it was one of my dreams to stand in front of the International gathering accepting an International Award for my achievements. I am indebted to the Chair Award Committee. The then SLA President Mr Brent Mai and Ms Koyoko Sato – the Director and Chair of the award committee from China were there to witness the ceremony and appreciated the work. Ms Sato came to me personally before the award and whispered that I truly deserve this award. Attending SLA Annual Conference was really a great experience. The Annual Conference of SLA was held at Chicago, Il during July 15-18, 2012. I got the opportunity to meet with some eminent personalities in the field of Library and Information Science. It was like a treasure house of knowledge and experiences shared with fellow professionals during the conference. This award also provided me with the very first opportunity to attend SLA Annual conference and Info-Expo at Chicago. This recognition also had elicited enthusiasm in me to make an effort to improve more as a professional. The SLA Award was the symbol of my success when the International participants cheered me for my achievements. The conference also enriched me with a new set of knowledge, experience and had increased my professional ability. I was interviewed by a few media channels as well. International recognition has certainly motivated me.

PS: You are the recipient of Commonwealth Professional Fellowship 2014. Please share your journey from applying for the fellowship until the learning experience at the University of Birmingham, UK.

LS: I am a member of many LIS forums. The application of Commonwealth was shared by some professional friend on one of the forum and I thought of applying. I also discussed it with my professional friends who had applied and received the fellowship previously. They encouraged me to apply. Our then DG & CEO recommended my candidature and fortunately, I was selected for this fellowship. The great surprise for me that I applied for the first time and it got selected and secondly I opted for Research and development Sector instead of Library Science. I selected the University of Birmingham as my host Institution because …. It was a major learning opportunity for me. I felt like going back to my school days. Every morning 7.00 a.m. till evening at 4.00 p.m. we had classes on various topics. We attended several workshops, seminars, field visits and so on. Almost all the management and research aspects were taught. We used to get homework also. At the end of our programme, we were provided with topics of our research work and we presented the research report before the committee and the students. During the fellowship time, I tried to complete projects well before the deadline. That not only gave me time to re-evaluate them but I also tried to help my colleagues with their projects. Completing work before time gave me a sense of pride and achievement. Improving efficiency without compromising on quality along with having spare time is what motivated me to beat deadlines. I realized that my friends could bank upon me when it comes to delivering quality work within a given time. This increased my self-confidence and allowed me to push myself harder. We had a great time during those 3 months in UK. We visited many places like Oxford, London, Scotland and Wales etc. As I said I am very positive by nature hence collected positive things from there and I have a lot many positive experiences during my stay in the UK like:-

Commuting is easy with very well connected trains/bus/trams/tubes
People have patience while driving and don't blow horn unless needed
Plenty of tourist locations within UK.
Pedestrians get priority all the time
And of course visiting Oxford University Library, Birmingham University Library, City Library and many more. We watched a few Plays at The City Library which was the best part during my stay in UK.

Most of the commonwealth professionals were residing at BISH Wesley House at Birmingham and it was at a walkable distance from the University. We used to have a lot of fun with friends from different countries who were residing there for different reasons. I got to know about the culture of many countries. I am still connected with most of my friends and miss them too. It was entirely an educational trip for me which I will cherish for years.

PS: You received the Title “Green Ambassador”. It seems you are an environmentalist as well. Please elaborate your contribution in this regard.

LS: Yes, I promoted plantation programmes and I myself have planted more than 1800 plants till now. My love for nature is inbuilt. I see life in plants. They are my best friends during my loneliness. I have also written a few poems on Mother Nature.

PS: You are an author. You have published research articles in reputed national and international journals and also published five books with renowned publishers. How will you describe your works as an author in the field of library and information science?

LS: Till now I have published and presented more than 35 research articles, case studies and technical papers. Most of them are single-authored. There are a lot of many topics that I am planning to pen down. I got a good response from my publishers of books. During school days I used to write essays while references from various books and articles. That habit helped me to write articles. But most of my articles are case studies, my own experiences and research in the LIS field.

PS: There is a hidden side of you also. You write poems and short stories also. Please tell about this aspect also.

LS: Abraham Maslow has rightly said “Musicians must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write if he's to be ultimately at peace with himself. What one can be, one must be”, I would like to thank my teachers for this who motivated me to write during my school’s days. My Hindi teacher would keep my essays and poems with her. She published one of my articles in a reputed magazine (although I do not have a copy as when it got published my teacher left the school and till date I have no connection with her). My music teacher had also kept my notes during my college days. My habit of reading and writing has helped me in this area also. I still write poems. Birthday gift from my side to my colleague would be either a handwritten poem (describing their personality and nature) or a plant. Some of the poems were penned in no time. I will definitely love to publish a book of my poems. I was awarded twice by "Hindi Prachar Prasaar Santhan" in the year 2018 (i.e. in the month of March and September respectively) for my poems.

PS: We all know that reading books opens the door to a vivid imagination, expanded vocabulary and the ability to succeed academically. You are a vivid reader also. Please tell what kind of literature you read. What are you reading nowadays? What are your suggestions for inculcating reading habits among the children?

LS: Good reading skills benefit students not only do academically, but it helps them for lifelong success. Reading develops vocabulary, increases attention span, and promotes stronger analytical thinking. The key to encouraging reading habits in kids or students is reading aloud with them at home from a young age. By reading together often, your child will know about the joys reading can bring, motivate him or her to read. Watching you reading magazines, newspapers, and books will show your child that reading is important. Encourage your child to join you with his or her own book while you are reading. During my session for the youth, I always try to motivate them to read books and provide them with a few good titles to start with.

PS: Did your MA in sociology contributed to your understanding of society?

LS: ‘Society’ has so many meanings. It could refer to small villages, a country as a whole, or even a whole linguistic/religious group. Culture can help to shape the interactions and quirks of society. Knowledge and understanding of these societal differences can help create a more tolerant society. Sociology is concerned about the behaviour, organization, and distribution of power within a society, that is, a network of rather idealized individuals. Psychology pertains to the study of the human mind, whereas sociology pertains to learning human behaviour in society. Sociology aims to study society. The reason behind, avoiding the study of an individual's behaviour is as that cannot be generalized for the whole society. That's why Sociology uses its own tools and methods over society to study it as a whole. I am not sure if you can use the subjective approach in Psychology but in Sociology, it is avoided and empirical studies are done to generalize anything over the whole society. During my college days, I was associated with National Social Service and we used to go to Kacchi Basti (Urban Slums) and would teach the kids of the urban slums. We also motivated the labourer for upbringing their family with education and other skills.

PS: The status of women in India has been subject to many great changes over the past few millennia. With a decline in their status from the ancient to medieval times, to the promotion of equal rights by many reformers, their history has been eventful. In modern India, women have held high offices. You yourself are working with Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Being women did you face any problems regarding the status, in this male dominating society?

LS: There have been innumerable debates about gender in India over the years. Much of it includes women’s position in society, their education, health, economic position, gender equality etc. What one can conclude from such discussions is that women have always held a certain paradoxical position in a developing country like ours. With time, a lot has changed since those dark ages of the 1950s for the women. Though at some levels problems like dowry, crimes like rape, sexual harassment at the office or public places, and molestation, eve-teasing prevail. Even after over sixty years of independence women are still exploited, which is the shameful side of our country? Yet one can’t deny that the situation has improved since the earlier times. Women, who now represent 48.2% of the population, are getting access to education, and then employment. Women in India have slowly started recognising their true potential. They are questioning the rules laid down for them by society. As a result, they have started breaking barriers and earned a respectable position in the world. Today Indian women have excelled in each and every field from social work to visit the space station. There is no arena, which remains unconquered by Indian women. Whether it is politics, sports, entertainment, literature, technology everywhere, its women power all along. Today, the modern woman is so deft and self-sufficient that she can be easily called a superwoman, juggling many fronts single-handedly. Women are now fiercely ambitious and are proving their mental not only on the home front but also in their respective professions. Despite progress, the very fact that women, along with being achievers, also are expected to fulfil their roles as wives or mothers, prioritizing home against anything else. I personally feel that we’re living in a unique time of history where women's voices are increasingly being encouraged and heard. As a result, we’re undergoing a fundamental shift in our approach to leadership. As the new generation emerges, we’re seeing a flatter management style, where collaborative working is preferred over pushing from above. For me, this is a great opportunity, for women in particular as it offers a much wider scope for defining successful leadership. I always encourage and motivate other women to come forward to do something for society. Whatever they have earned from the society they should return it back. If they are leaders, they should become a champion for others and should be prepared to mentor and to open doors for those you believe in.

PS: These days, it seems like all the world’s information is on Google. What does a bricks and mortar library offer that search engines and the Internet can’t? Please put in your views on ‘Digital India Movement’ and its application in library and information centres.

LS: The success of India is intrinsically linked to its ability to keep pace with technology. The world has seen an unprecedented change in the technology landscape over the last decade and innovation has become more important than ever before. Technology can help build a digital India—a knowledge-based society and economy— by empowering, connecting and binding everyone. In a country where nearly 70% of the population lives in villages, a significant segment of about 6.5 lakh villages do not have a single bank branch, access to quality healthcare, and higher education, the Govt has done well to recognize these handicaps and addressed them in its manifesto with the ideas such as National Rural Internet and Technology Mission for use in TeleMedicine, Mobile Healthcare, Massive Open Online Courses and setting up a National e-Library, NDLI, SWAYAM etc. are some of the best examples of Digital India Initiatives.

Secondly, while taking the sessions on Cyber Law, I always tell the students that they must search for authentic reference materials before posting or sending the messages in social media. As you know, the Internet is a place where anyone can write so it’s not possible that every content present on the Internet is true. Some misleading information present on the Internet goes viral due to circulation. So the reality is around 40% information present on the Internet is fake (expect some reliable sources). Hence I always recommend searching an authentic site before coming to the conclusions.

PS: What is the rule of a 21st-century librarian? How has the profession changed?

LS: Librarians have always played an essential role in research and information services, providing scientists with essential information and helping students find what they need. However, the modern librarian’s role has evolved into one of the most multifaceted jobs on a university campus. Scientific librarians, in particular, are tasked with engaging their patrons with the latest resources and technological developments, which is not an easy feat given how quickly technology changes. Librarians play an integral role in keeping up with the federal requirements for open access and data management and provide just in time support to help faculty and researchers manage them. We also play an important role in helping faculty and researchers to showcase their research activities in a variety of ways. The physical space of a library has become a place for study and social networking. The future impact of the library will not necessarily depend on the physical presence of the library, because the resources (databases, journals, books, etc.) to support the information needs of most disciplines will be available from anywhere, at any time, on any device. The information will be in real time, easily accessible, and easily shared and synced. The new role of libraries in the 21st century is to be a learning and knowledge center for their users as well as the intellectual commons for their respective communities where, to borrow the phrase from the Keystone Principles, people and ideas interact in both the real and virtual environments to expand learning and facilitate the creation of new knowledge. Libraries preserve knowledge so that none is lost, organize knowledge so that none is wasted, and make knowledge available so that no one need be deprived in this information age. Library services have brought a lot of changes to library operations by making access to knowledge more convenient to the user.

During my stay at Birmingham, the faculty after delivering their lectures encourages the students to read the books for further references. The faculty used to tell the students that the more you read, the more words you are exposed to. Exposure to well-written work can have a huge impact on our own writing. I also feel that reading a book is much cheaper than going to a movie or any other forms of entertainment. Reading is free at the library, where the new books are constantly being added. I always tell the youth that these are the best friends as they can even transport you to different worlds, all with the added benefits of not having to pay for your airfare (hahhaha). While reading you are concentrating on one thing, by doing so you train your body to avoid distractions. This ability can help in performing other tasks that require concentration. I saw a poster on Amazon which says that “You don’t have to burn books to destroy a culture. Just get people to stop reading them (Ray Bradbury). As we all know the story of Nalanda University. The Turkish leader Bakhtiyar Khilji destroyed the roots of knowledge, Budhhisimamd Ayurveda forms the country three times. He set fire to the great library of Nalanda and burned down nearly 9 million manuscripts. The library was so vast and strong that it took three months to completely destroy it. The University was again reopened after 800 years i.e. on September 1, 2014. It was originally established during the Gupta period in the 6th century AD by Gupta Kings. I think we the Librarians should promote reading habits, should definitely conduct orientation sessions for the faculty and students regularly. Libraries should not be misunderstood as a repository of books rather it is a repository of information. I feel that that the Digital Age is not at all a threat to the library rather it is the greatest opportunity and is an unbeatable combination of traditional versus modern. Digital literacy skills need to be developed and the curriculum of LIS must focus more on such aspects. The new technologies are continually changing the way people access information.

PS: I am also in this field for 20 years. For me, the ILA association is one association in the country. For me and my nearby colleagues, the ILA election was a normal and silent affair. But this year ILA elections have become the topic of discussion the among the librarians. What are your views regarding this?

LS: I personally feel that only in the LIS profession we have created so many associations which are just meant to organise conferences and seminars. Unlike other professional associations, the LIS associations are not actually working on the mandate they propose. I feel that all these associations should be merged within ILA like Chapters of different regions. For example, NHRD have their (NEWS regions) chapters. CAs, CS Doctors all professional have only one association under whose umbrella other regional associations are merged. To uplift our professional image, we should work as a team. ILA should act as an umbrella to support the professionals and other associations' as well. This will unite us. Library association must play an important role in the promotion of librarianship as a profession.

PS: Please mention some of the activities which you really do to promote librarianship in India.

LS: The education system in India is based on the British system of education. The Government of India lays stress on education for all. The directive principle contained in article 45 states that the state has to provide free and compulsory education for all until the age of 14 years. School is a gateway to knowledge and plays an important role in building up a love for reading. The school library is integral to this educational process. Encouraged at the right age, the children will surely develop a love for books. “Catch'em Young” is, therefore, the motto of the school libraries. Dr. Ranganathan stated that the school libraries should act as laboratories for students and the librarians should function as guides to help the students in learning and using the books for improvement of knowledge and scholarship.

Learning new things is what gives me immense motivation. For example, when I learned how to cook. I did this by scouring various recipes and helping out my mother in the kitchen. Only the willingness to learn a new trick or trade is what kept me going. The very fact that I am adding to my knowledge base is a big boost for me. Utilizing my free time in a constructive way is my source of motivation. I believe that learning should never stop. Given the level of competition that businesses face nowadays, it becomes imperative to constantly reinvent yourself by accumulating whatever usefully comes along the way.”

I have been invited by many Universities and Colleges, Schools where I had delivered lectures on Transformation of Librarianship in India for their faculty and students. I always try to promote the professional skills and technological managerial skills required for an LIS professional. We as a librarian perform duties of managers as well; if you compare the similarities between a manager and an LIS professional we will found more similarities than differences. Like technical skills, human skills, communication skill, presentation skill, time management skill, leading skill, planning skill, decision-making skill, marketing skill, are also required for a good Library professional. Hence, I would recommend that the Library Science schools should review their curriculum. If you ask me, I still prefer IGNOU study materials which are regularly updated.

PS: Final thoughts

LS: Last but not least "Everything is special if you think so.

Every moment is memorable if you feel so.

Everyone is unique if you see so.

Life is beautiful if you live so.

Think positive and live happily.

(Disclaimer: I conducted this interview through email. I am Dr Preeti Sharda working as a Librarian of the Regional Institute of English, Chandigarh. I am really grateful to Dr Lata Suresh for sparing her valuable time for this interview. She is a very hardworking and multi-talented librarian. She has really set an example for all us working as library professionals. Interviewing this kind of librarians has made my vision broader and will definitely help me to think beyond the actualities.)

Dr P Venkata Rao: Fellow (Knowledge Management)

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 00:02:00 +0000

Interviewer: Dr Preeti Sharda

Dr P Venkata Rao, Fellow (Knowledge Management) and Course Director at Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration, Punjab (MGSIPA), Chandigarh and has over two decades of experience in different types of libraries in Chandigarh. Dr Rao’s areas of interest include Library Management, IT Applications in Libraries, Digital Library Software (Greenstone), Training Technologies, and Web Technologies. He has been associated with organizing training programmes on IT Applications for library professionals and Management Development Programmes for senior officers of Punjab Government. Dr Rao is also Senior Vice-President, Chandigarh Librarians’ Association (CLA), Chandigarh. He is an outstanding, highly reliable and motivated librarian. He exhibits great competence and timeliness in the performance of his job. He not only executes his duties efficiently and with grace, but also he routinely takes initiative to research for the most appropriate methods to accomplish his tasks. Indeed, he is not afraid to tackle the most complex and arcane issues. He offers technical support and expert services as a professional consultant to the librarians of the region. Dr Rao is an inspiring example to other librarians for his dedication, the commitment he shows to his personal development and to the promotion of the profession. He has answered some of the questions about his library career and the skills he uses in his current role.

Dr Preeti Sharda: South meets North. It seems that you have an Interesting background. Please tell something about it.

Dr P Venkata Rao: Family circumstances made me land in Chandigarh 31 years ago and since then no looking back. I completed BA, MLIS and PhD from PU, Chandigarh. I was a topper in University at MLIS exam. I had the opportunity to start my career from IMTECH, followed by NIPER and CII. The short time associated with these organizations helped me know what I am good at - Library Technology, though I do not have any formal degree or diploma in ICT. A great amount of time was spent on experimenting, experiencing and exploring on library technology and applications during my stay at DAV College, Chandigarh and is being followed at my current location at MGSIPA, Chandigarh. Happy that I was able to contribute to my organisations develop the libraries technologically empowered. I am happy to acknowledge the encouragement from Mr I B Verma and Dr JaspalKaur, College Librarians.

I was always interested in the libraries since my school days. Unfortunately, there was no library in my school, but a few newspapers. I was interested in reading news on happenings at different places. It was only after school pass out that I realised the importance of information and knowledge. On many occasions, I used to travel eight kms to visit District Library to read an English newspaper as in our village we did not have access to. When I passed out of College, I got admission in MScStatistics. I spent about a month and not satisfied and thought of what interested me –a one year course in Library Science as I also wanted to go back to where I belong to, Andhra Pradesh, again due to family circumstances. As luck would have it, I did very well at my BLIS and as family issues stabilized, continued my studies and emerged as the topper in MLI S.

PS: You mentioned that you worked at libraries of institutions like IMTECH, NIPER and CII. Please provide us with brief information about the work you did there and the skills you acquired in due course of time (working in these institutions). Also, highlight some of the challenges and accomplishments during the stay in those institutes.

PVR: During my short stay of three months at IMTECH, I had my first experience of working with computers and CDS/ISIS software. At NIPER, it was about developing a library system …started a serial section. My stay was just for two months. I was the first library professional having worked with NIPER.

At CII, it was altogether different. Producing exhibition catalogues, providing information services to the corporate section. All these organisations helped me acquiring new skills, specifically IT skills.

PS: Previously, you were associated with DAVC – 10 also. Please tell us a bit about your role and the skills you gained from your role within the college?

PVR: DAVC-10 was again a unique situation…the challenges include managing people, leadership, technical skills and digitization of manuscripts. It was indeed wonderful and satisfying working in an academic set up and at the same time working with a specialized and rare collection of manuscripts and technology applications. Happy to share that it was the first academic library in Chandigarh to automate in Chandigarh. Even the Panjab University library was not automated in 1996.

PS: Can you highlight the key points of your journey from a Librarian to Fellow (Knowledge Management)?

PVR: All the four libraries that I worked earlier tremendously helped me learning new techniques and skills. They also helped me know what I am good at and that paved me to go beyond librarianship. All these skills, learning attitude and knowing and contributing towards the development of the Institute, that I have been associated for the last 18 years helped me reach where I am today.MGSIPA also gave me opportunities to grow beyond librarianship and venture into organising programmes not only for library professionals but also other officials and officers of the Government of Punjab. Training Technology, Documentation, Knowledge management, etc. are the areas that I am into besides librarianship.

PS: Can you describe your current role at Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration (MGSIPA)? Also, mention the specific skills you use for your current position?

PVR: Currently, I am Fellow (Knowledge Management) and my responsibilities include library management, organising training programmes, and Head of Quality Management System and Environment Management System of MGSIPA, Publications of the Institute, Coordination with State Administrative Training Institutes in the country, etc.

PS: What “keeps you busy” these days in the field of Library and information science? What projects are you working on?

PVR: Though I have experimented and experienced various library technologies in our Institute’s Library, I keep looking for new technology applications in libraries so that the acquired knowledge can be transferred to the fellow professionals by building their capacities through capacity building training programmes. This I have been doing for the last 13 years…but there are some limitations.

I am working on “Experience capitalization” and “Knowledge Management”, besides Blending learning and Online learning.

PS: What accomplishments in the field of librarianship are you proudest of?

PVR: Digitization and capacity building programmes. Adoption of QMS and EMS as per ISO standards.

PS: What did you like best about the profession? What was the hardest/most challenging?

PVR: Being a Librarian, I have always felt that I have access to a world of knowledge. Feeling lucky.

PS: You have coordinated/ organised a number of International and national programmes/courses/workshop. Planning and execution of such programmes don’t happen overnight. It starts by writing a proposal and ends–up by writing the report. As per my knowledge you are a one-man army. Please share how you really make it happen.

PVR: Yes…self-learning and continuous learning and learning to unlearn and unlearn to learn…

PS: Participants of the programmes range from bureaucrats, administrative officers, educationist, library professionals and so on. Please share the kind of difficulties you faced in this regard.

PVR: Adults learn differently…I just have to understand that and I keep reminding it to myself. Every programme is different… You need to prepare accordingly. If you do not understand your participants, you fail to connect.

Same is the case with the library users…you need to understand the users and their interests and their capacities --- in terms of their literacy with respect to technology and information.

PS: You have achieved your target to provide training to more than 5000 Punjab Government employees for ‘Blended Training Programme: “COMMIT” – Comprehensive Online Modified Modules for Induction Training’, Sponsored by Department of Personnel & Training, Government of India. Congratulations on that. Please highlight the key concerns of the programme.

PVR: It was indeed remarkable …When our DG asked me in March 2018, I was not very confident…I had to work hard as I did not have the understanding of working of various Departments of Government of Punjab. In fact, I have been coordinating only with various organisations of the Government of India and I am comfortable with them. Over a period of time, I had my own team, supported by one of my colleagues from our IT Section and consultations with former colleagues in different ATIs helped me to smoothly run the achieve the target of training 5000 employees of Government of Punjab and about 500 employees of Chandigarh Administration by January 2019.

PS: Please specify your role in the implementation of the Environmental Management System (EMS) and ISO 9001:2015 standards at MGSIPA.

PVR: I started as a Management Representative for ISO 9001:2008 in the year 2014 and since then I have been coordinating the implementation of ISO standards for Quality Management System and Environmental Management System, not only the library but for the whole Institute. Being a Librarian, I was quick to adopt and implement these standards in the Institute.

PS: This is a fact that open source software (OSS) is a key option library should consider when implementing strategic technologies. You started advocating the Digital Library software’s like Greenstone and DSpace way back around 2006. You shifted your library from proprietary software to open source software. There is still a general fear of the unknown whereby some librarians are afraid to start working on OSS. Please suggest how does the start.

PVR: There has been some hesitation for some librarians to start and explore new things, particularly OSS with regards to the current trends in modern librarianship. Lack of technical skills, lack of self-motivation and fear of getting burdening themselves are holding them to experiment and experience OSS. Security is also regarded as one of the challenges that is faced by librarians when using open source software. I am fascinated by the Open Source Movement and I have a great interest in making use of OSS for library applications. I had conducted capacity building programmes on adopting OSS between 2005 and 2015 on GSDL, KOHA, etc. I hope to continue promoting OSS applications in libraries through capacity building programmes.

PS: You were chosen for the “Young Librarian Award” by the SATKAL for the year 2006. Did this award make you more motivated to work had in the profession?

PVR: I was happy having recognised my work on digitization of manuscripts by SATKAL. I am grateful to STAKAL for the award. But, that made me more responsible, motivated and committed…

PS: Tell something about your association with Chandigarh Librarians Association.

PVR: My association with CLA for over two decades facilitated a lot many opportunities to broaden my capacities to learn and network. I am ever grateful for the time with CLA.

PS: What are your passions? Interest outside your work.

PVR: So far…the library, the family and a few friends! Getting to places to explore and learn.

If someone needs me sincerely, I am there with commitment.

PS: If you could go back in time and do part of your career or education over again, is there something you would have changed? A class you would have taken? A missed opportunity?

PVR: Communication Skills for Library Professionals and Psychology for Library Professionals …these two always attract me as I have missed during my study.

PS: Thank you very much for sparing your precious time. Time has always been your topic. What tips would you give to aspiring librarians?

PVR: You are fortunate having chosen this profession, by choice or otherwise. So keep it going … Always strive to get counted amongst the library users and library community.

Young librarians should be aware of the needs of the users and they should connect with them…else the users undermine the important roles the libraries and librarians play and you know… they know how to google it …

(Disclaimer: I conducted this interview through email. I am Dr Preeti Sharda working as a Librarian of the Regional Institute of English, Chandigarh. It was an amazing experience. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr Rao for sparing time from his busy schedule. Interacting with professionals like Dr Rao always makes you more motivated to work hard).

Dr Prabhat Kumar Pandey: Teaching Librarian

noreply@blogger.com (Preeti Sharda) — Thu, 03 Jan 2019 07:11:00 +0000

Dr Prabhat Kumar Pandey: Teaching Librarian

This month’s featured librarian is Dr Prabhat Kumar Pandey who is Librarian & Head of the Department of Library and Information Science in Sarojini Naidu Govt. Girls P.G. (Autonomous) College, Bhopal (M.P.) and is also the president of MP Library Association. The interview was conducted through email by Dr Preeti Sharda, Librarian of Regional Institute of English, Chandigarh.

Dr Prabhat Kumar Pandey did Ph.D. in Library and Information Science from Dr H. S. Gour University, Sagar (MP) and also did PG in three different subjects. He is the recipient of Best Librarian Award 2016 conferred by South Asia Management Association- Thailand Chapter at Thailand. He is an expert in library automation, Information Retrieval, Institutional Repository, Digital Library and Open Source Software. He organized four National Seminars and Workshops on Library Automation and Research Methodology. He is the editor of International Journal of Information Library and Society (ISSN:2278-0386) and Chief Editor of E-Anveshan: An International Multidisciplinary Journal ISSN: 2395-5783 and President of Madhya Pradesh Library association. He has authored 10 books and has 112 research papers published in different indexed journals to his credit. He is associated with the teaching library and information sciences & practising librarianship; research of library and information from last 15 years. He is a life member of ILA, IASLIC, SIS and other Professional associations meant for the growth and development of Library professions nationwide. He was invited to China and Thailand to deliver special lectures on LIS Education.

Dr Preeti Sharda (PS): How did you think of choosing a career in Library Science?

Dr Prabhat Kumar Pandey (PKP): My inclination towards the reading of epics like the Mahabharat and Ramayan promoted me to join the noble profession of Librarianship in future. My higher education in Science stream provoked me further to search for this profession and build it as a career.

PS: You also did MA in Ancient Indian History & Archaeology. Did you want to become a historian?

PKP: To get acquainted with the rich heritage and culture of our country I pursued MA in History and Archaeology, which in return helped me to be perfect in the multifarious subject of Library and Information Science.

PS: Most of your works are on application Information Technology for Library and Information Science. Do you have any formal training for that?

PKP: I obtained formal training on ICT in Libraries from various organisations like NISCAIR, Inflibnet, ICSSR, NISSAT, etc. and gained a working knowledge through a professional career of Librarianship. I also organised a number of conferences, workshops and training programmes on ICT application in Libraries.

PS: A few of your works are not on library sciences which suggest that you do research on other subjects. How do you manage that?

PKP: Library Science is a part of Social Science, which ultimately belongs to the Universe of Knowledge. By way of doing research in Library Science, I learnt to do research in other areas of Social Sciences and other disciplines.

PS: What was your career path before coming to the Sarojini Naidu Govt. Girls PG Autonomous College?

PKP: I started my professional Library Science career from Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism, Bhopal as Assistant Librarian in the year 1992-1993. After that, I got selected through MP PSC for college librarianship and served in different Government Colleges of Madhya Pradesh. At present, I hold the post of Librarian and Head, Department of Library and Information Science in Sarojini Naidu Govt. Girls PG Autonomous College, Bhopal since 2008.

PS: In your time here, you’ve managed two positions: head of the library and Teacher of library sciences how do you manage. What are some things you enjoy about both of those jobs? Since your arrival at the college, what would you say is the biggest change that you’ve led or observed?

PKP: Librarianship and teaching Library Science are complementary to each other. It becomes a unique opportunity and a chance for me to implement the basic knowledge of Library Science learnt through teaching in practical Librarianship and inculcate practical knowledge in the teaching of the subject. I enjoyed holding the dual positions. I observed a phased transformation in the academics of Library Science by way of conducting an in-house internship, publishing Library Science journal and another journal on multi-disciplinary subjects, enhancement in e-resources, digitisation of materials, library automation, conducted events and Library awareness programmes for faculty and students.

PS: Did you make special efforts to enhance the accessibility of the readers to library resources and did you make efforts to bring more readers for your special collections? What are your thoughts about how access to collections has improved or changed during your tenure?

PKP: Primarily, our library serves the information needs of students and faculty of the college, whereas for the access of the public to our special collections is need-based. To my personal belief and opinion, every library collection should be open to public access to fulfil the First Law of Library Science. In this regard, our college library has provided User ID and Password to every student and teacher to access the e-collection online from anywhere at any time.

PS: What are some projects or accomplishments that you hope to be remembered for?

PKP: As a President of Madhya Pradesh Library Association due to regular efforts under my leadership Department of Higher education Government of Madhya Pradesh advertised more than 300 posts of college librarians and 218 candidates from all over India were selected for college librarianship. Madhya Pradesh Government appointed me as Chairman of the Draft Committee for the formulation of "MP Public Library Legislation - 2018", I initiated College Library Automation movement in Madhya Pradesh in the year 2008 on SOUL software with the help of INFLIBNET. Now, most of the Government, as well as private colleges, have automated through SOUL. I have been honoured with distinguished National level awards by Social Research Foundation Uttar Pradesh and Best Academic Librarian of the Year 2017 by LPA, New Delhi during International Conference at Goa University Goa for my contribution towards library modernisation in central India. Madhya Pradesh Library Association in association with other reputed Institution organised so many training programmes on new technology in LIS during my tenure. I have been felicitated by Ranganathan Society for Social Welfare and Library for my excellent service for the upliftment of library profession in Madhya Pradesh on June 8, 2018, at BIMTECH New Delhi. I have been also International Best Librarian of the Year South Asian Management Association Thailand during IC-IDSSIH October 10-12,2016. Also known for Editor of UGC approved bi-annual research journal International Journal of Information Library and Society ISSN 2278 - 0386 from 2012. 15 Ph. D. And 100 M. Phil. Awarded under my supervision and guidance. As a President of Madhya Pradesh library association struggle for LIS professional’s status pay scales and other problems.

PS: Tell something about ‘Read Bhopal’ or ‘Padhe Bhopal’ Campaign.

PKP: Read Bhopal is a campaign initiated by Governor of Madhya Pradesh to develop reading habit among students in IT age on 9th October 2018 from 8.30 to 9.30 am. As you know now a day, students are fond of mobile use and watching television instead of reading anything. In this one hour program, students have to read a book of their choice and mobile and other electronic gadgets are not allowed. It was initially started in government and some private colleges and Schools of Bhopal and afterwards every college started organising the Read Bhopal every week. The teachers of the college must be present during the program. Governor of Madhya Pradesh Anandiben Patel was honoured with the World Book of Record Award today at Raj Bhavan for the programme. Office Bearers of the World Book of Record Committee presented a certificate to the Governor.

PS: Let’s move the discussion to the scenario and challenges of the library science professionals. There are many professionals with library and information studies degrees, which didn’t use to be the case. How do you think this is going to shape the profession? Are we moving towards a massively specialized profession?

PKP: It is good for the profession because as society grows; we need more Librarians for upcoming Institutions/Libraries. But at the same time, Librarians need to understand the change in reading habits, user’s expectations and ICT applications. Syllabus of Library and information studies need to be based on tremendous changes that have taken place in Library and Information System/ services and as a whole.

PS: Since we are well into the subject if you had a single piece of advice for an academic librarian, what would you say?

PKP: In the modern era, Academic Librarian needs to be proactive. Need to be aware of the latest trends in the field of research, information science and need to deliver it back to the academic community effectively.

An Interview with a Librarian

Dr. Mayank Trivedi: A Self-Motivated Librarian

Dr Meenal Oak: An Administrative Librarian

Prof. Ramesh C Gaur: A Celebrity Librarian

Interview

Dr. Neeraj Kumar Singh: A Resourceful Librarian

Dr Prabhjot Kaur: Public Librarian with a Distinctive and Dynamic Role

Dr Jaspal Kaur: A Multi-Dimensional Personality

Dr Akhtar Parvez: A Self-Possessed and Resourceful Librarian

Dr Badan Barman: A Professional with Innovative Vision

Dr Rajeev Manhas: A Multifaceted Librarian

Dr Maneesh Bajpai: A Law Librarian with a Poetic Rhythm

"उसी शहर में हूँ फिर,जहाँ शबनम घास में लिपटी रहती थी,

और सुबह मुलाक़ात के बहाने देती थी, तरोताज़ा तो मैं वैसे भी हो जाता था, जब जब तू रुख़सार से निकलती थी।"....... Dr Bajpai

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Sh Pardeep Rattan:The Optimistic Librarian

Dr Rishi K. Tiwari: A Librarian a with Different Mind Set

Dr Lata Suresh: A Multifaceted Librarian

Dr P Venkata Rao: Fellow (Knowledge Management)

Dr Prabhat Kumar Pandey: Teaching Librarian

Dr Prabhat Kumar Pandey: Teaching Librarian

और सुबह मुलाक़ात के बहाने देती थी,
तरोताज़ा तो मैं वैसे भी हो जाता था,
जब जब तू रुख़सार से निकलती थी।"....... Dr Bajpai