Karachi, 28-Jan-2026 (PPI): Experts have sounded the alarm over the governmental neglect of the College Library Sciences Department, stating that despite global moves towards digitalisation, Pakistan’s college libraries are encumbered by an outdated system. These concerns were voiced by Dr. Raees Ahmed Samdani during his address at the “1st College Librarians Symposium,” an event convened at Adamjee Government Science College.
The symposium was organised by the Society for Promotion of Reading and improvement of Librarians (SPRIL) in collaboration with Library Information Innovators. Dr. Samdani, who noted that in his 35-year career he was unable to arrange such a gathering, considered the symposium a welcome development for the profession.
Dr. Samdani recalled that the late former Prime Minister, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was the only national leader to announce the establishment of 50,000 libraries. He pointed to the Pakistan National Centre, with its library and auditorium for academic and cultural activities, as a part of that initiative, lauding the former leader’s commendable educational philosophy.
He remarked that college librarians cater to a student demographic at a formative age and mental stage, preparing them for the wider world. He stressed that instilling the importance of books and libraries in these students ensures they become integrated members of society.
Professor Nasir Iqbal, Principal of Adamjee Government Science College, commended the members of the College Library Sciences Department for organising the inaugural symposium at the institution. He stated that aligning with the demands of the current era, as well as modern research requirements, is a fundamental necessity.
The principal emphasised the critical role of digital libraries and the need to maintain a strong connection between students and library resources. He asserted that it is the responsibility of librarians to familiarise college students with the utility and significance of libraries to preserve the young generation’s relationship with books, expressing his wish for librarians Rabiya Faridi and Chief Librarian Farheen Mahmood to continue arranging similar events.
Librarian Aamir Subhani described the gathering as the “first practical comprehensive symposium” designed to recognise the long-standing services of college librarians. He requested his colleagues to teach students to love books and to play a vital part in shaping them into positive and effective individuals.
Other speakers at the event included SPRIL member and librarian Rabiya Faridi and Syed Izhar Hussain, the librarian of SZABIST University. The symposium commenced with the national anthem, followed by a recitation of the Holy Quran by Syed Fasihullah. The hosting duties were performed by Shahzad Tareen and Jawaher Aleem.