Stakeholders urge swift enactment of National Library Act

KATHMANDU: Stakeholders have emphasized the urgent need to draft and implement a National Library Act to streamline library operations across the country.

The call came during a Monday meeting of the Public Policy and Legislative Committee under the National Assembly, which discussed the National Library Policy and related legislation.

Participants highlighted that the absence of a formal library law has caused significant operational challenges.

Sagarraj Subedi, Head of Tribhuvan University Central Library, stressed that a dedicated act is essential, as library functions are directly linked to education.

He noted that the existing University Act does not provide clear provisions for library management.

Subedi said the lack of legislation has complicated book procurement processes and even the registration of libraries. He emphasized the need for clear legal guidelines on whether libraries should be registered at the local or district level.

He also pointed out that private libraries are currently required to register as companies, highlighting regulatory gaps.

Chandra Niraula, Head of Keshar Library, stated that public libraries are a key indicator of national development, more so than the number of universities.

He noted that although Nepal has 26 universities, fully equipped public libraries are absent in 753 local levels, hindering the goal of lifelong learning. He cited Karnali Province as an example, where only 2 out of 10 districts have a nominal library presence.

Niraula also urged strengthening public library systems and addressing the shortage of trained personnel. He suggested that the act should include provisions for staff capacity building.

He shared that Gandaki Province has drafted a provincial-level Central Library Act, which could serve as a model for federal legislation.

Rajendra Prasad Pandey, General Secretary of the Nepal Community Library Association, reported that out of 928 libraries nationwide, 681 community and public libraries remain closed.

He criticized the state for failing to take ownership of these libraries, which are often kept running only through NGOs and local social organizations.

Committee members and stakeholders collectively called for the immediate enactment of the National Library Policy and Library Act.

They stressed that legislation should clearly define responsibilities across local, provincial, and federal levels to ensure effective management of public and community libraries.