'Lack of will-power hinders TU central library reconstruction'
KATHMANDU: At a time when the nation is struggling to rebuild its infrastructures following the devastating earthquake of April 2015, Tribhuvan University Central Library is yet to begin its reconstruction, operating in a frail state.
The central library has more than 11,000 members and houses at least 400,000 books including rare books, archives and manuscripts; and is a sought-after library for academicians, diplomats and researchers in the nation.
Indra Prasad Adhikari, Chief of the library said, "Lack of staff, damaged infrastructure including book racks, chairs, tables, study rooms, and political interference, among others have crippled one of the oldest libraries and have prevented it from returning to its old state."
"It will take ample time for the central library to regain its past glory," Adhikari added referring to the condition of washrooms and drinking water system in the library.
Regarding filling in vacant posts we approached TU Service Commission after completing the formal process a year ago, but the authorities have turned their backs, Adhikari vented ire against irresponsible work ethics.
He further added, interestingly, TU's high ranking officials make a visit during high profile arrivals and show keen interest to address the problems surfacing in the university, but to no avail.
"Lack of will-power in authorities has deserted them from being responsible and accountable," Adhikari lamented. It takes at least two hours to clean pigeons' litter in the hallway. We have coordinated with the Japanese and UK Universities to provide us with machines to keep pigeons away.
University Commission Grant (UGC)'s member secretary, Professor Dev Raj Adhikari told THT Online, "After completing the process, we will release the funds to the central library."
NCP (NCP)'s All Nepal National Free Students Union (ANNFSU) TU in-charge Bhusan Subedi said, they have been continuously pressuring the service commission to fill the vacant positions at the central library.
Despite all odds, the library is planning to introduce ISBN (International Standard Book Numbers) and will go online from April 15, according to Adhikari.
