National 3 (Spotlight Weekly)

Help For Library

Japan hands over microfilm and book binding equipment to the TU Central Library

By A CORRESPONDENT

In what is seen as the continued cooperation by Japan in the development of various sectors of Nepal including education, the Japanese Embassy has handed over microfilm and other useful equipment to the Tribhuwan University Central Library in Kirtipur.

Minister-Counsellor of the Embassy Hiroshi Jingu handed over the microfilm and book binding equipment to TU Central Library in a function organized on October 4 at Tribhuvan University. The Embassy of Japan had extended a grant equivalent to Rs. 20.37 million under the cultural grant-in-aid scheme for the supply of microfilm and book binding equipment to the library.

"The main objective of the grant is aimed at promoting cultural, educational and research activities, preservation of cultural assets and relics as well as preserving historically valuable books and old documents. The grant covers the cost for procurement, transportation and installation of the necessary equipment," states a press release of the Embassy.

TU central library : Assistance for betterment

The microfilm and book binding equipment provided to the TUCL is expected to preserve valuable literature and historical records including Sanskrit manuscripts, literature, books on religion, as well as repair them.

Since 1978, the Government of Japan has been providing equipment to Nepal under this scheme, including paleo-magnetic equipment to the Central Department of Geology of Tribhuvan University, display equipment to the National Museum, offset printing machine to the Royal Nepal Academy, sports equipment to the National Sports Council, educational TV programs to Nepal Television, etc.

The TUCL was established in 1959 along with the Tribhuvan University. Since then it has been rendering service to the university teachers, students, foreign scholars and the general public. The library has been deemed as the only library in Nepal, which has a huge collection of documents and periodicals for research purposes. The library has planned to incorporate programs such as total library automation, Internet online databases, and ultimately to develop the TUCL as one of the best training centers of South East Asia, networking with the national and regional libraries for resource sharing in the future.

"After handing over the equipment, Jingu warmly praised the aim and work of the university and the library. Emphasizing the importance of preserving archives of Sanskrit, Hindi, Nepali and other languages in the library as a legacy of the Nepali people, he expressed his hope that the equipment would also benefit the visitors, both Nepali and foreigners for their research and studies. Furthermore, he expressed his belief that the grant will be utilized properly and effectively and the project will prove to be yet another milestone in fostering cordial relations of friendship and cooperation existing between the two countries," the press release adds.