BMC libraries buried in heaps of neglect

BERHAMPUR: Books covered by layers of dust and in disarray, the rich variety at four libraries maintained by Berhampur Municipal Corporation (BMC) often go unnoticed by visitors. Several books are in dire need of restoration, new ones are unavailable and there isn’t enough staff. Since many of the books are early editions, conservation techniques need to be updated, said sources. The air conditioners, TVs and computers at these libraries are non-functional. The generators hardly have any fuel to run. Computerised bibliographies in these libraries are a dream for the readers.One of the BMC libraries, located near the Berhampur Press Club, is frequented by readers. However, this one is  dogged by problems of poor maintenance - just as most other public libraries are in the city. The library has two halls which are insufficient to accommodate the growing number of readers. On an average, over 200 people visit the library daily.Although BMC supplies 12 newspapers and over 20 periodicals every month, no new titles have been purchased yet. The library manages with its 7,000 old books that have been there since its inception.The BMC also owns a research library established in the name of Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati. Books and encyclopedias worth Rs  2 lakh were brought to the library when it was opened in 1993.Since then no new books have been added to the collection. Because of its poor upkeep, the research library’s popularity is on the wane.Intelligentsia said although BMC collects tax from people, no concrete measures are being taken for maintenance and development of the libraries.They have demanded the State Government’s intervention to establish a well-furnished library in the city.