Decentralised Development and the Role of Public Libraries in India

Abstract

In India after independence in 1947 there were various attempts to improve the Local Self-Governments as a part of decentralisation of power to the people. The recent amendment in 1992 to the Constitution attempted to devolve powers to the Panchayati Raj Bodies (Local Self-Governments). The legislation also provided for establishment of a Library system suited to the changing needs of the people. The paper attempts to visualise the role of the public library system in the changed context. Several functions which were not hitherto included in the mandate of the public libraries are identified for data gathering and information dissemination at the village level. This will enhance the utility of the public libraries and energise the public librarian as a change agent. In this connection the need for collaborating with the local voluntary sector is also emphasised

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