The KISS Central Library and the Department of Library and Information Science, School of Tribal Heritage and Tribal Indology (STHTI), KISS-DU jointly celebrated National Library Week from 14th to 20th November 2025 with the objective of promoting meaningful engagement with library resources and strengthening the culture of reading among students, research scholars, and faculty members. The week-long celebration highlighted the role of libraries as vital hubs for learning, research, and recreational reading.
The observance commenced on 14th November with an inaugural ceremony graced by Professor Kashi Nath Jena, Pro-Vice Chancellor; Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi, Professor In-charge, Library; Mr. Subhendhu Kumar Mohanty, Additional Director, Student Affairs; Dr. Snigdharani Panda, Chairperson, Council of Deans; and Dr. Yasobanta Das, Principal. All speakers underscored the idea that the effective use of library resources significantly enhances academic achievement.
Chief Librarian Mr. Rabin Kumar Khandayatray outlined the purpose and relevance of National Library Week, while Dr. Sujata Acharya, Dean, STHTI, proposed the vote of thanks.
On 15th November, a Mass Book Reading Programme was organized in which students and research scholars participated in a 45-minute collective reading session held in the library’s reading room, creating an inspiring atmosphere of shared learning. Mrs. Namita Raj, Librarian, and Mr. Nabakrushna Choudhury, Librarian, KISS, facilitated the reading session.
The programme “Know Your Library”, held on 17th November, aimed to familiarize users with the wide range of resources and services offered by the KISS-DU Library. On this occasion, Er. Atul Nag, Associate Professor, KISS-DU, and Dr. Simanchala Behera, Librarian, KIMS & Faculty, Department of Library and Information Science, KIIT University delivered detailed presentations on the available learning tools and the methods for accessing them effectively. Mr. Kalandi Charan Swain, Assistant Chief Librarian, KISS-DU proposed the vote of thanks.
Continuing the spirit of community engagement, the initiative “Donate a Book: Educate Millions” was conducted on 18th November. The event encouraged members of the academic community to donate books as an expression of goodwill and collective responsibility, motivating many others to join the effort in the coming days.
The celebration concluded on 20th November with a distinguished invited lecture on the theme of the National LibraryWeek-2025, “Libraries: Connecting People with Knowledge”, delivered by Mr. Sujit Mahapatra, Founder of Bakul Foundation. He spoke eloquently about the transformative role of libraries in fostering learning communities and bridging people with knowledge. He encouraged the students to develop the habit of reading on a regular basis.
The valedictory session included a welcome address by Dr. Sujata Acharya, Dean, STHTI; a formal introduction of the guest by Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi, Prof. Incharge Library; and a vote of thanks by Mr. Rabin Kumar Khandayatray, Chief Librarian.
The entire week-long celebration was coordinated by Dr. Shubhasmita Acharya, Assistant Professor, Department of Library and Information Science, School of THTI, KISS-DU and Mr. Rabin Kumar Khandayatray with all Library Staff ensuring smooth execution of each day’s activities.
