Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 23: On the occasion of World Book Day the Department of Libraries and Research J&K organized an exhibition of rare and historical books in the SRS Library, Jammu.
S A Laharwal inaugurated the exhibition. About 200 rare and historical books were exhibited in the exhibition. These include the books, which were published in 17th and 18th century. Some of the books which were exhibited include Kalhan’s Rajtarangini published in Sanskrit in 1867and its translated version in English by Stein published in 1867 and in some other local languages.
The Mahabharta published in 1819, the Golden books of India by Sir Roper published in 1893. Shahnama Firdosi published in 1874 and some other historical books were also exhibited.
A large number of people including some prominent scholars, educationists, writers and students visited the exhibition.
On the occasion DG Libraries and Research explained the purpose of holding such exhibitions. He stated that the department has 140 libraries in different parts of the State at district level, tehsil level and even at block level. There are about 90000 to 100000 books in the SRS Library Jammu and SPS Library Srinagar. Besides the Department has over 8000 manuscripts in Sanskrit, Persian,Arabic and Tibetan languages. Most of these manuscripts have been digitized recently. The Department purchases books from the prominent writers every year and also from the local authors.
He said the preference is also given to books in local languages like Kashmiri and Dogri.
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