PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: Ambedkar Jayanti Marks a Milestone: Release of Draft Policy for Strengthening Public Libraries in India by the Free Libraries Network
5 PM, 13 April 2024, Press Club, New Delhi.
[Delhi, April 3, 2024]: Commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr BR Ambedkar, the Free
Libraries Network announces the release of a landmark draft policy aimed at fortifying India’s
public library system. The policy shall be released at the Press Club of India on Saturday, April
13 at 5 p.m. by children and leaders from free libraries and the free library movement.
Dr BR Ambedkar was an ardent advocate for education and social equality. His profound
love for reading and libraries underscores the importance of equitable access to information.
The Free Libraries Network pays homage to his vision by unveiling a comprehensive draft
policy, aimed at addressing the critical need for a robust public library system in India.
A strong public library system is a core missing piece in India’s development trajectory.
Public libraries empower people and drive societal progress by providing knowledge,
information, and education resources to support lifelong learning, creativity, innovation, research
and development. Presently, the number of public libraries is grossly insufficient. Those that
exist are not guided by nationally-recognised standards that make for an inclusive and excellent
library experience. Only a small percentage of India’s population has access to libraries, with
socio-economic factors like caste, class, gender, and disability proving to be significant
impediments for the vast majority. This glaring gap vitiates the commitment to equity and justice
enshrined in the Indian Constitution. A robust public library system is a cornerstone of a healthy
democracy.
The “People’s National Library Policy 2024,” provides a legislative framework to build a
national library system that is accessible to all segments of society, meets the diverse needs of
the population, and empowers communities for collective progress.
- The policy envisages a nation-wide public library system that provides access to books, builds
a culture of reading, and promotes literacy and numeracy among citizens of all age groups and
identities. All public libraries will provide universal internet access. - The policy suggests minimum standards for all public libraries. These are derived from
evidence-based international standards, validated by the experience of library practitioners,
educators, and experts across India, within the Free Libraries Network, and grassroots
organisations. - The policy recommends library curricula that envisages librarians as community leaders and
custodians of constitutional rights, rather than as merely record keepers. - The policy outlines a collaborative framework for a decentralised national library system in
India, which emphasises shared responsibility and local autonomy.
The draft policy document will be available for public review and feedback starting from April 14,
2024, inviting and citizens to contribute their insights and suggestions towards shaping the
future of public libraries in India.
For media inquiries and further information, please contact:
Purnima Rao, Direction, Free Libraries Network (9871826895,
<freelibrariesnetworkfln@gmail.com>
About Free Libraries Network: The Free Libraries Network (FLN) is a coalition of free libraries,
librarians, and library activists across India and South Asia. A member of the International
Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), FLN believes in universal access to
reading materials and information. FLN offers a platform for sharing resources, best practices
and insights about free libraries in India. Although it does not own or operate libraries, FLN
plays an integral role in coordinating and acting on policy issues related to access to knowledge
resources.
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