The Dinajpur District Government Public Library, a cornerstone of knowledge and culture for over four decades, is facing a severe crisis as its mission to foster learning is being severely hampered by dilapidated infrastructure and a critical lack of space.
Established in 1980 near the Shahid Baro Moydan, the library was originally designed to be a four-story hub of intellectual activity. However, its operations remain confined to just a single floor, a fraction of its intended size, struggling to accommodate an average of 150 daily visitors. This has resulted in a critical shortage of seating space, turning away many eager readers.
"Adequate seating is our most pressing issue. We are simply out of room," said K. M. Mehedi Hassan, the Senior Librarian.
The problems extend beyond just space. A recent visit revealed that the library's boundary wall, drainage lines, washrooms, and garage all require urgent renovation. Despite promoting a women-friendly environment, the facility notably lacks a separate reading room for women, highlighting the gap between its service goals and physical reality.
A Collection in Need of a Proper Home
The library boasts an impressive and growing collection of approximately 45,000 books, with 1,000 to 1,200 new titles added annually. According to Hassan, books are procured through a central government system, and politically sensitive materials from previous administrations have been transferred out to make way for new acquisitions.
Technologically, the library is making strides. It offers free internet access and is currently upgrading its Library Management Software to improve efficiency. However, for a readership increasingly dependent on digital resources, the provision of only a single computer for public use is woefully inadequate, despite sufficient computers for staff.
Glimmers of Hope Amidst Challenges
Despite these hurdles, the library remains a vibrant community center. It regularly hosts discussion meetings, book exhibitions, and competitions in recitation, debate, and drawing. It features a dedicated children's corner with books and toys and is one of only three government libraries in the country that stays open until 7:00 PM, significantly enhancing its accessibility.
The staff of seven, though short of the sanctioned nine positions, is praised for their professional and commendable service.
A Call for Revival
The consensus is clear: the library's immense potential is being stifled by its physical limitations. With adequate financial allocation and a structured renovation plan—including the long-awaited building expansion—this vital institution could fully transform from a mere repository of books into the comprehensive knowledge and research center it was always meant to be.
