CM Naveen Lays Foundation Stone For Redevelopment of Harekrushna Mahatab State Library

Santhakabi Bhimabhoi Library Inaugurated By the CM

Bhubaneswar: The Chief Minister of Odisha, Sri Naveen Patnaik, laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment project for the Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab State Library situated in Bhubaneswar on Monday. This renovation endeavor is a collaborative effort between the Odisha Department of Culture and the Odisha Mining Corporation Limited (OMC). Additionally, an official ceremony will mark the opening of a library dedicated to the legacy of Santhakabi Bhimabhoi within the Integrated Public Service Center (IPSC) in Bapujinagar.

Established in 1967 with the aim of fostering literary enlightenment, the State Library has been a cornerstone of knowledge dissemination and inspiration for generations. Renamed the Dr. Harekrishna Mahatab State Library on August 15th, 1987, it has served as a pivotal hub for academic pursuits, catering to a diverse audience ranging from students to scholars.

The transformation plan encompasses various enhancements to the library’s facilities, including dining options such as Aahar Kendra and Mission Shakti Cafes, accessible amenities for individuals with disabilities, multilingual sections, engaging spaces for children’s reading, serene study areas, and modern conference facilities. Furthermore, the incorporation of essential amenities like water dispensers and emergency services, along with seamless Wi-Fi connectivity, reflects a commitment to creating a conducive environment for visitors.

Moreover, the revamped library will accommodate up to 500 individuals simultaneously and will offer online access to its collection through digitization and automation efforts, facilitating convenient exploration of literary treasures. With climate-controlled chambers and premium drinking water facilities, the refurbished library aims to be a hub of intellectual enlightenment, promoting a culture of learning and innovation.

Bhubaneswar: The Chief Minister of Odisha, Sri Naveen Patnaik, laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment project for the Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab State Library

The inauguration of the Santhakabi Bhimabhoi Library at the IPSC in Bapujinagar represents a significant stride towards democratizing access to literary resources. Equipped with amenities such as Aahar Kendra, Wi-Fi connectivity, surveillance systems, and comfortable reading rooms, this addition enriches the cultural landscape of the city and serves as a vital center for knowledge dissemination and community engagement.

These inaugurations underscore Odisha’s steadfast commitment to spearheading a public library movement across the state and beyond its borders. Among the dignitaries present at the event were Minister Sri Ashok Chandra Panda, MLAs Sri Ananta Narayan Jena and Susanta Rout, Secretary of Odia Language Literature and Culture Sujata Rout Kartikeya, and Director Sri Dilip Routray.