When we think about the evolution of library science in India, one name stands out prominently: Dr. Shiyali Ramamrita Ranganathan. Often hailed as the Father of Library Science in India, Ranganathan's groundbreaking contributions have shaped the way libraries operate and serve their communities.
Born on August 12, 1892, in Shiyali, Tamil Nadu, Ranganathan’s journey began with a deep appreciation for knowledge and education. After earning a degree in mathematics, he pursued further studies in library science in the United States. Upon returning to India, he recognized the pressing need for a structured approach to managing the vast resources of libraries in the country.
Ranganathan’s most notable contribution is the formulation of the Five Laws of Library Science, which remain foundational principles in the field today:
- Books are for use: Emphasizing that libraries exist for the benefit of their users.
- Every reader his or her book: Advocating for the importance of matching users with appropriate reading materials.
- Every book its reader: Highlighting the need to promote all types of literature to potential readers.
- Save the time of the reader: Stressing the importance of efficiency in library services.
- The library is a growing organism: Acknowledging that libraries must adapt and evolve to meet changing needs.
These principles not only transformed library practices in India but also had a global impact, influencing library science worldwide.
Beyond the Five Laws, Ranganathan was instrumental in developing the Colon Classification system, a revolutionary method for organizing library materials. This system is still in use today, particularly in Indian libraries, and showcases his vision of making information easily accessible.
Ranganathan was not just a librarian; he was a passionate educator and a prolific writer. His works on library science and information organization laid the groundwork for future generations of librarians. He founded the Indian Library Association and played a pivotal role in establishing library science as an academic discipline in India.
Ranganathan's legacy lives on, inspiring countless librarians, educators, and information professionals. His dedication to making knowledge accessible to all continues to resonate in the modern era, where the role of libraries is more critical than ever in bridging information gaps and promoting literacy.
In commemorating Dr. S. R. Ranganathan, we celebrate not only his remarkable contributions to library science but also his unwavering commitment to the dissemination of knowledge. His vision reminds us that libraries are not just repositories of books, but vibrant spaces for learning, discovery, and community engagement.
