Shillong, October 17 : The Directorate of Arts and Culture, Meghalaya, organised a one-day workshop on the theme “Habit of Reading as a Tool for Social Development and Economic Upliftment” at the U Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong, as part of the National Mission on Libraries Scheme.
The workshop aimed to promote reading as a lifelong skill, encouraging students, scholars, book lovers, and the general public to cultivate meaningful reading habits. The initiative also sought to highlight the vital role of libraries as centres of knowledge, creativity, and social growth.
The inaugural session was graced by the Minister in-charge of Arts and Culture, Sanbor Shullai, who served as the Chief Guest. In his address, Shullai stressed that reading enhances knowledge, intellect, and awareness, shaping individuals into informed and thoughtful citizens. “Reading broadens our perspective, nurtures learning, and connects us to our cultural roots and society. It transforms individuals and contributes to the overall progress of the community,” he said.
The Director of Arts and Culture, I. Majaw, MCS, delivered the welcome address, emphasising the importance of integrating reading into daily life to foster a culture of curiosity and lifelong learning.
The workshop’s resource person, Prof. Shalini Lihitkar, Head of the Department of Library and Information Science, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Maharashtra, delivered an insightful presentation on the impact of reading on building informed citizens and its direct contribution to socio-economic progress.
She highlighted how libraries and reading initiatives serve as essential pillars for social inclusion, empowerment, and intellectual growth, particularly among the youth.
The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from students of 15 schools, college students from NEHU and Martin Luther Christian University, members of Kali Kit Kot and Seng Kynthei Laitumkhrah Pyllun, as well as library professionals and users of the State Central Library.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by A. Pathaw, Librarian in-charge of the State Central Library, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, speakers, and participants for making the programme a success.
