LIBRARIES TO GO HI TECH;

The director of Libraries, Mr.Rajendra Kumar told here yesterday that the Libraries in the state would go Hi Tech.

Addressing scribes after visiting the district library here, he said that 21 libraries in the state are already computerized. Six more towns including Madikeri will be computerized shortly, he assured. The libraries will also get Internet facility and visitors can browse through the details about government and others through Kiosk technology.

The director also disclosed that plans are ahead to open libraries for the blind in district level. He also said that the best 80 books and award winning books would be translated into Brail script. The libraries in Gram panchayath level would be converted to cultural centers by organising cultural programmes . He also hinted at a proposal to amending the 40 year old library act.

The director agreed that much has to be done to improve the libraries and he is waiting for the fund.

MLA VISITS PRISON;

MLA Mr.K.G.Bopaiah paid a surprise visit to the district prison here and inspected the conditions.

His visit followed complaints of corrupt practices in the jail. The inmates have been complaining that the jail authorities are taking bribe from the visitors and at the time of releasing of the inmates. Misdeeds in the procurement of food were also complained.

MLA lambasted the jailer and superintendent and warned them of disciplinary action. He said that the issue would be raised in the assembly. Later mr.Bopaiah tasted the food being prepared for the inmates.

URGE FOR STREAMLINING SALARY;

MLA Mr.K.G.Bopaiah has urged the government to streamline salary structure of the library assistants.

Inaugurating the training camp for librarians of Panchayath level, Mr.Bopaiah said that at least minimum wages should be announced to these library assistants. Lambasting government for its apathetic view on library assistants he alleged that less amount was allocated to libraries in the recent budget.

State member of the Libraries, Mr.Subraya spoke on the occasion and said that over rupees thirty crores collected for library tax is stuck in the department, unutilized. Librarian Nadiger, Chandra Shekara Mallorahatti and member Mr.Gokul Naik were present.