Draft:Nepal Library Association

The Nepal Library Association (NLA) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization dedicated to the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and professionalism in Nepal. Established on September 25, 1980 (9th of Asoj 2037 B.S.), the NLA operates in accordance with the National Directorate Act, 2014 BS, and was registered at the District Administration Office in Kathmandu. Its foundational legal framework is based on the Sangha Sansthan Registration Act, 1977 of Nepal

Motto and Objectives

The motto of the NLA is: "Information is power and Learning is a never-ending process." The primary objective of the association is to safeguard, upgrade, and maintain the quality of libraries and library services throughout Nepal. It is composed of qualified librarians and trained professionals in Library and Information Science, who work towards the establishment of efficient library systems ensuring access, affordability, quality, and equity of library services.

The NLA has played a significant role in shaping library-related rights and policies within the constitutional framework of Nepal. Notably, the Constitution of Nepal, 2015, recognizes the Right to Information under Part 3, Fundamental Rights & Duties #27, which states: "Every citizen shall have the right to demand and receive information on any matter of his or her interest or of public interest." Furthermore, under Part 4, Directive Principles, the Constitution mandates the establishment and promotion of community information centers and libraries to support the personality development of citizens.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the NLA is to advocate for the importance of libraries in society, support the development of libraries, and enhance access to information for all citizens. The vision of the association is to see libraries acknowledged as vital resources for education, information, and culture, contributing to the overall development of society. The NLA envisions a future where every community in Nepal has access to well-equipped and professionally managed libraries that cater to diverse user needs.

Goals

The NLA pursues several strategic goals: - **Advocacy and Awareness**: Raising awareness about the importance of libraries and advocating for supportive policies and funding. - **Professional Development**: Offering training and development opportunities for librarians to enhance their skills and knowledge. - **Networking and Collaboration**: Fostering collaboration among librarians, libraries, and related organizations at both national and international levels. - **Standards and Best Practices**: Promoting the adoption of standards and best practices in library management and services. - **Access to Information**: Ensuring equitable access to information and library services for all citizens. - **Research and Innovation**: Encouraging research and innovation in library and information science to improve services and practices. - **Community Engagement**: Understanding community information needs and developing library services accordingly.

Executive Committee

The NLA is governed by an executive committee, with the following members for the term of 2024: - **Mr. Pushparaj Subedi** (President) - **Mr. Surendra Prasad Duwal** (Vice-President) - **Mr. Sanjib Choudhary** (General Secretary) - **Mr. Kishor Subedi** (Vice-General Secretary) - **Ms. Karishma Tandan** (Treasurer) - Other committee members include Ms. Ratna Shova Phaiju, Ms. Sakuntala Dhungana, Mr. Sanjib Singh, Ms. Puja Sharma, Mr. Arjun Thapa, Ms. Pratikshya Shakya, and Ms. Anshu Kumari Jha.

Former Presidents

The NLA has been led by various notable presidents who have contributed significantly to the library and information sector in Nepal: - **Mr. Murari Binod Pokhrel** (1980–1983) - Founder President and advocate for library modernization. - **Mr. Purna Prasad Amatya** (1983–1986) - Promoted professional development in libraries. - **Mr. Ishwor Raj Pandey** (1986–1989) - Initiated numerous programs for library enhancement. - **Mr. Saket Bihari Thakur** (1989-1992 & 1992–1997) - Focused on integrating technology in libraries. - **Mr. Rudra Prasad Dulal** (1997–2002) - Instrumental in advancing library education and digital initiatives. - **Mr. Bhola Kumar Shrestha** (2002–2010) - Advocated for literacy and library access. - **Mr. Prakash Kumar Thapa** (2010–2014) - Enhanced resources and information literacy. - **Dr. Ashok Thapa** (2014–2017) - Focused on modern library management and practices. - **Ms. Gita Thapa** (2017–2019) - Promoted library services in the healthcare sector. - **Mr. Indra Prasad Adhikari** (2019–2024) - Advanced digital resources and management in libraries.

The NLA continues to work towards the betterment of library services in Nepal, reinforcing the vital role libraries play in education and information access within the community.

Publications

ACCESS: An International Journal of Nepal Library Association

ACCESS is the official journal of the Nepal Library Association, based in Kathmandu, Nepal. The journal aims to disseminate information related to Libraries, Library and Information Science, and library professionalism. ACCESS is published annually and is indexed in NEPJOL.

Magazine

The Nepal Library Association (NLA) Magazine is an annual publication celebrating the nation's literary heritage and the crucial role of libraries in communities across Nepal. The magazine aims to foster appreciation for libraries as centers of learning, knowledge preservation, and community engagement. Contributions from members and the broader community are encouraged to inspire collaboration and advocacy for libraries' growth.

Quarterly Newsletter

The Nepal Library Association (NLA) Quarterly Newsletter is a new initiative designed to keep the library community informed about the latest developments in librarianship and association activities.

Campaigns

The Nepal Library Association (NLA) has organized several impactful campaigns to promote literacy, education, and library development across Nepal. Some notable campaigns include:

1. National Library Week: Held annually, this campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of libraries in communities and schools. It includes events such as book fairs, storytelling sessions, and workshops on library management. Nepal celebrates National Library day on 15th of Bhadra (31st August) in the memory of historical day every year since 2008.
2. Library Advocacy Campaigns: NLA advocates for policies that support library development and literacy programs at national and local government levels. They engage in lobbying efforts to secure funding and resources for libraries.
3. Digital Literacy Campaigns: Recognizing the importance of digital skills, NLA conducts campaigns to promote digital literacy among library users and staff. This includes training sessions on using digital resources and technology.
4. Reading Promotion Campaigns: NLA encourages reading habits among all age groups through campaigns like Readathon events, book drives, and reading clubs. These activities aim to foster a love for reading and improve literacy rates.
5. Community Outreach Programs: NLA organizes outreach programs to underserved communities, bringing mobile libraries and literacy workshops to remote areas. This helps bridge the gap in access to educational resources.
6. International Collaboration Initiatives: Collaborating with international library associations, NLA participates in campaigns that promote global library standards, knowledge sharing, and cultural exchange.

Through these campaigns, the Nepal Library Association continues to play a vital role in advancing literacy, supporting libraries, and fostering a culture of learning and knowledge sharing throughout Nepal.

External links

• nla.org.np