Chhattisgarh Library Association

The Chhattisgarh Library Association (CGLA) is a registered society under the Chhattisgarh Societies Registration Act, 1973. It was officially registered on February 13, 2024, and it was initially started on December 13, 20121. The association was mainly founded by Dr. Kundan Jha, who is recognized as the Father of the Public Library Movement in Chhattisgarh due to his significant contributions.

The CGLA aims to develop high standards of librarianship and library and information services. Its core objective is to provide a common platform for library and information science professionals to exchange the latest updates and knowledge, and to improve the quality of library and information services.

For more detailed information, you can visit their official blog, which also includes posts about various library consortia and insights into library and information science.

Recent Activities: The CGLA has been active in discussing various library consortia, which are cooperative agreements among libraries to share resources. Some of the consortia mentioned in their recent posts include FORSA, TIFR Libraries Consortium, ISI Library Consortia Deals, and many others that facilitate resource sharing among libraries.

Library and Information Science: They also provide insights into the field of library and information science, highlighting the importance of libraries in educational and research work, and advocating for the establishment of libraries in every village to promote reading among the masses.

Chhattisgarh Public Libraries Legislation: The association also discusses the Chhattisgarh public library legislation, which aims to establish, organize, maintain, and develop free and effective public libraries in both rural and urban areas of the state.

Cultural Development: The Chhattisgarh Culture Department is working on developing e-libraries, which will include a wide range of literature and resources in Hindi, English, and Sanskrit, among other subjects.

For the latest updates and detailed information, you can visit the official blog of the Chhattisgarh Library Association. They regularly post about their activities, library science education, and other relevant topics for library professionals and enthusiasts.

Educational Initiatives: The CGLA is involved in promoting education in Library and Information Science. They have shared a list of some of the top universities in India that offer Library and Information Science education, which includes prestigious institutions like the University of Delhi, Indira Gandhi National Open University, and the University of Calcutta.

New Education Policy: They have also discussed the New Education Policy 2020 of India, which introduces significant changes in the educational structure and emphasizes the importance of local languages in early education.

Public Library Legislation: The Chhattisgarh Public Libraries Act of 2008 has been a topic of discussion, highlighting the need for improvement in legislation and its implementation to meet the public’s changing needs. A state-level library, Mahant Sarvaswar Dayal Public Library, has been operational in Raipur with a collection of 45,000 since the enactment of this legislation.

Professional Development: The association provides a platform for library professionals to share the latest updates and knowledge, aiming to improve the quality of library and information services.

For the most recent updates and comprehensive details, you can visit the official blog of the Chhattisgarh Library Association. They regularly post about their activities, library science education, and other relevant topics for library professionals and enthusiasts.

Recent Posts: On April 7, 2024, the CGLA blog discussed various library consortia in India, such as the Forum for Resource Sharing in Astronomy (FORSA), TIFR Libraries Consortium, and the National Knowledge Resource Consortium (NKRC), among others. These consortia play a crucial role in resource sharing amongst libraries.

Library and Information Science: The blog also highlighted quotes from prominent figures about the importance of libraries and reading. For instance, it shared Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru’s view on the need for libraries in every village to encourage reading among the masses.

Education in Library Science: A list of top universities in India offering Library and Information Science education was shared, which includes renowned institutions like the University of Delhi and Indira Gandhi National Open University.

New Education Policy 2020: The CGLA blog provided insights into India’s New Education Policy 2020, which introduces changes in the educational structure and emphasizes the importance of local languages in early education.

For more detailed and up-to-date information, you can visit the official blog of the Chhattisgarh Library Association. They regularly post about their activities, library science education, and other relevant topics for library professionals and enthusiasts.

Blog Update: The CGLA blog recently updated on April 7, 2024, discussing various library consortia in India. These consortia are crucial for resource sharing among libraries and include organizations like FORSA, TIFR Libraries Consortium, and the National Knowledge Resource Consortium (NKRC).

Library Quotes: The blog also shared inspiring quotes about libraries from notable figures such as Radha Krishnan and Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, emphasizing the importance of libraries in education and the need for libraries in every village.

Library Science Education: A list of top universities in India offering Library and Information Science education was highlighted, featuring institutions like the University of Delhi and Indira Gandhi National Open University.

New Education Policy 2020: The blog provided insights into India’s New Education Policy 2020, which introduces changes in the educational structure and emphasizes the importance of local languages in early education.

For the most recent updates and comprehensive details, you can visit the official blog of the Chhattisgarh Library Association. They regularly post about their activities, library science education, and other relevant topics for library professionals and enthusiasts.

The major activities of the Chhattisgarh Library Association (CGLA) include:

Promoting Librarianship: The CGLA works to develop high standards in librarianship and library and information services. It provides a common platform for professionals to exchange the latest updates and knowledge in the field.

Library Consortium: They discuss and participate in various library consortia, which are cooperative agreements among libraries to share resources. This includes consortia like FORSA, TIFR Libraries Consortium, and the National Knowledge Resource Consortium (NKRC). 

Educational Initiatives: The association promotes education in Library and Information Science by sharing information about top universities offering related courses and discussing the New Education Policy 2020 of India.

Public Library Legislation: CGLA discusses the Chhattisgarh Public Libraries Act, 2008, which aims to establish and develop free and effective public libraries in both rural and urban areas of the state.

Cultural Development: They are involved with the Chhattisgarh Culture Department’s efforts to develop e-libraries, which will include a wide range of literature and resources in multiple languages.

Professional Development: CGLA offers a platform for library professionals for professional development and to improve the quality of library and information services.

These activities reflect CGLA’s commitment to enhancing the library and information science profession and improving library services throughout the state.

Dr. Kundan Jha is a prominent figure in the library movement in Chhattisgarh. He is widely recognized for his dedication to the growth and development of public libraries in the state. Here are some key points about his contributions:

Founder of CGLA: Dr. Jha is the founder member and the first President of the Chhattisgarh Library Association (CGLA). His personal enthusiasm and efforts were instrumental in the establishment of the association.

Father of Public Library Movement: He is often referred to as the “Father of the Public Library Movement” in Chhattisgarh due to his significant contributions to the field. His work has been pivotal in advocating for the importance of libraries and their role in society.

Advocacy for Libraries: Dr. Jha has been a strong advocate for the establishment, organization, maintenance, and development of public libraries in Chhattisgarh. His vision includes making libraries accessible to all, especially in rural areas, to promote education and literacy.

Professional Development: Through the CGLA, Dr. Jha has provided a platform for library and information science professionals to exchange knowledge and updates, aiming to improve the quality of library and information services in the state.

Dr. Kundan Jha’s dedication to the library movement reflects his deep commitment to education and the empowerment of communities through access to knowledge and information.

Dr. Kundan Jha has made numerous contributions to the Chhattisgarh Library Association (CGLA) and the library movement in Chhattisgarh. Here are some additional details about his work and impact:

Leadership and Vision: As the founder member and the first President of the CGLA, Dr. Jha provided leadership and vision that helped shape the association’s direction and goals. His efforts have been central to the development of librarianship standards and library services in the state.

Advocacy for Public Libraries: Dr. Jha has been a vocal advocate for the growth and development of public libraries. His dedication to this cause has been a driving force behind the library movement in Chhattisgarh, emphasizing the role of libraries as essential community resources.

Promotion of Library Education: He has played a significant role in promoting library and information science education. Under his guidance, the CGLA has highlighted the importance of educational programs in this field and shared resources about top universities offering these courses.

Influence on Library Legislation: Dr. Jha’s influence extends to discussions on library legislation in Chhattisgarh. His insights have contributed to the dialogue on how to improve the Chhattisgarh Public Libraries Act to better serve the community’s needs.

Cultural and Educational Development: Through his work with the CGLA, Dr. Jha has also been involved in cultural and educational development initiatives, such as the promotion of e-libraries and the integration of local languages in education as part of the New Education Policy 2020.

Dr. Kundan Jha’s contributions have been instrumental in fostering a culture of reading and learning in Chhattisgarh, and his legacy continues to influence the state’s library and information services.

Dr. Kundan - Father of the Public Library Movement in Chhattisgarh State

Dr. Kundan Jha played a pivotal role in promoting the public library movement in Chhattisgarh by:

Founding the Chhattisgarh Library Association (CGLA): He was instrumental in establishing the CGLA, which provided a platform for library professionals to collaborate and enhance library services in the state1.

Advocacy and Awareness: Dr. Jha actively advocated for the importance of libraries in society, emphasizing their role in education and community development1.

Library Development: He contributed to the establishment and improvement of public libraries across Chhattisgarh, ensuring they serve as valuable resources for learning and cultural engagement1.

Professional Development: Through the CGLA, he facilitated the exchange of knowledge among librarians, which helped in raising the standards of librarianship in the region1.

Community Engagement: Dr. Jha encouraged community involvement in libraries, making them centers for social and cultural activities, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and pride among the residents1.

His efforts have had a lasting impact on the library infrastructure and culture in Chhattisgarh, making libraries accessible and relevant to the needs of the community. Dr. Jha’s work has been a significant contribution to the literacy and educational landscape of the state.

Dr. Kundan Jha’s additional contributions to the public library movement include:

Educational Initiatives: He worked towards integrating libraries with educational programs, ensuring that libraries support the curriculum and serve as learning hubs1.

Technology Integration: Recognizing the importance of technology in modern education, Dr. Jha advocated for the inclusion of digital resources and internet access in libraries to broaden the scope of information available to the public1.

Cultural Programs: He organized cultural events and programs at libraries to engage the community and promote reading and lifelong learning1.

Training and Workshops: Dr. Jha conducted training sessions and workshops for library staff to enhance their skills and ensure they are equipped to meet the evolving needs of library users1.

Library Legislation: He was a proponent of library legislation to ensure that libraries are recognized as essential public institutions and receive adequate funding and support2.

Rural Library Development: Understanding the need for library services in rural areas, he focused on the expansion of library services to these regions, making information and resources accessible to all2.

Dr. Jha’s efforts have not only helped in the establishment of libraries but also in creating a sustainable ecosystem where libraries continue to evolve and serve the needs of the community effectively. His vision and dedication have left a lasting legacy in the library movement of Chhattisgarh.

Certainly! Here are more examples of Dr. Kundan Jha’s contributions to the public library movement:

Library Infrastructure: Dr. Jha was involved in the planning and development of library buildings and facilities, ensuring they were well-equipped and conducive to reading and learning1.

Fundraising and Grants: He played a key role in securing funding for libraries through grants, donations, and government support, which was crucial for their operation and expansion1.

Outreach Programs: Dr. Jha initiated outreach programs to bring library services to underserved populations, including mobile libraries and book delivery services for those unable to visit the library in person1.

Literacy Campaigns: He championed literacy campaigns that were closely tied to library services, promoting reading and writing skills among all age groups1.

Collaborations with Educational Institutions: Dr. Jha fostered partnerships between libraries and schools, colleges, and universities to support academic research and provide students with access to a broader range of learning materials1.

Preservation of Local Culture: He encouraged libraries to preserve local literature, folklore, and cultural artifacts, making them centers for cultural heritage1.

Policy Formulation: Dr. Jha contributed to the formulation of library policies and standards, which helped in maintaining a consistent quality of service across the state’s public libraries1.

These initiatives by Dr. Jha have greatly influenced the library landscape in Chhattisgarh, making libraries a cornerstone of the community’s educational and cultural life. His legacy continues to inspire library development and service enhancement throughout the region.

Father of the Public Library Movement in Chhattisgarh State.

Chhattisgarh, a state in India, was formed on November 1st, 2000, after being carved out from Madhya Pradesh. The name "Chhattisgarh" means 36 forts. The demand for a separate state dates back to 1964. It comprises 33 districts covering an area of 135,200 square kilometers, with Raipur as its capital. District Libraries were established in all districts by the former Madhya Pradesh State Administration. Despite the passage of the Public Libraries Act in 2008. Dr. Kundan Jha is renowned for his contributions to the public library movement in Chhattisgarh, earning him the title of the Father of Public Library Movement in the Chhattisgarh State.