Who will save libraries?

The closure of a historic public library reveals Nepal’s low priority for institutions that foster learning.

Once, libraries were hubs of learning and engaging places for individuals to exchange ideas. Despite the politically challenging times of the Panchayat era, libraries flourished, and so did the habit of visiting them. But decades of official neglect and declining public investment have pushed many libraries to the brink of extinction. The closure of the Kathmandu Valley Public Library at Bhrikutimandap is a telling example. The Social Welfare Council, which manages the library, shut it down in April, citing unpaid rent of around Rs30 million. While the unpaid dues have been presented as the immediate cause, the closure ultimately reflects the government’s failure to recognise and protect libraries as essential public institutions. Instead of finding ways to further promote a library that housed around 60,000 books, journals, reports and booklets, served some 3,000 members and attracted around 200 daily visitors, authorities chose to shut it down.