Puttur: The Library and Information Centre of St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, celebrated National Librarians’ Day on August 12, 2025, at the Spandana Seminar Hall to commemorate the 133rd birth anniversary of Dr. S.R. Ranganathan, the father of the Library Science Movement in India. Prof. Nemichandra Gowda, Retired Associate Professor of Kannada, Pompei College, Aikala, was the Resource Person for the event. The function was presided over by Dr. Vijayakumar Moleyar, Vice Principal of the College.

Addressing students, Professor Nemichandra Gowda likened the library to “the very heart of any education system,” urging them to frequent it and cultivate a lasting love for books. Warning against the lure of mobile phones, he said, “Stay away from mobile addiction. Read newspapers, expand your vocabulary. While the mobile makes you stoop, books lift you up for a lifetime.”

Driving home the contrast, he added, “The mobile tells you, ‘Bow your head to look at me, and I will keep it bowed for the rest of your life.’ But the book says, ‘Bow your head to read me, and I will help you walk through life with your head held high.’He also paid glowing tribute to Dr. S. R. Ranganathan, lauding his monumental role in shaping India’s library movement.

Dr Vijayakumar Moleyar, in his presidential address, highlighted some essential books that every student must read and encouraged all to build a personal library at home.

Abdul Rahman G., Librarian of the College, welcomed the guests, while Manohar S.G., Librarian of the PG Centre, proposed the vote of thanks. Gayathri, a III B.Sc. student, compered the programme.

The event began with a prayer rendered by Aparna and her group from the College Performing Arts team under the guidance of Assistant Professor Prashanth Rai. Library staff members Zeeta Noronha and Catherine Crasta extended their support in organizing the programme.

The event witnessed the participation of 110 students and was also attended by IQAC Coordinator Dr Edwin D’Souza, and Assistant Professors Prashanth Rai, Harshitha P.V., and Bharatha Kumar.