Rajshahi: The National Public Library Day-2025 was observed in Rajshahi with a focus on enlightening people through effective use of public libraries. The divisional public library, in collaboration with the district administration, organized a discussion at the office conference hall of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) to commemorate the day.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was themed “Samriddha Hok Granthagar, Ai Aamader Angiker” this year. DC Afiya Akhter and Additional DC Tuktuk Talukder addressed the gathering as chief and special guests, respectively, with Md Roknuzzaman, the assistant director of the divisional public library, presiding over the event.
Prominent speakers at the event included Abdullah Al Bashir, Librarian of Rajshahi College, Waheduzzaman Sagar, Librarian of Rajshahi Government City College, and Nurun Nabi Mridha, a leader of the Bangladesh Non-government Librarian Council. They emphasized the crucial role of libraries in fostering a knowledgeable and enlightened society and highlighted how books contribute to personal and societal prosperity.
DC Afiya Akhter pointed out that libraries are essential in a developed society, not only for providing access to information but also as centers for entertainment. She stressed the need for public libraries in every union, serving as bridges for information access across communities.
The event also featured prize distributions for winners of various competitions held to mark the occasion. The day began with the ceremonial release of balloons and festoons, followed by a rally.
Simultaneously, Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology (RUET) celebrated the day on its campus with a rally and a discussion session. The discussion featured Vice-chancellor Prof Abdur Razzaque, former vice-chancellor Prof Sazzad Hossain, and other university officials who spoke on the significance of libraries in education and research.