As part of the National Library Week celebrations from November 14 to 20, 2024, VIT-AP University organized an event at ZPHS Mandadam. The awareness program, titled "Improving Reading Habits Among School Children," was held on November 14, 2024, organized by University Librarian Dr. Ch. Veeranjaneyulu by inviting Dr. Chekka Banerjee, Dean of the VIT School of Law, as the chief guest for the occasion.
In his presidential address, Dr. Veeranjaneyulu highlighted the significant role libraries that have played in India’s history, particularly during the freedom struggle. He emphasized that libraries were pivotal spaces where people from all walks of life, including writers, poets, and freedom fighters, gathered to share ideas and discuss strategies for India's independence movement.
During this time, libraries provided access to books, pamphlets, magazines, and other materials that inspired and galvanized the public towards the cause of freedom. Dr. Veeranjaneyulu further encouraged the students to make the most of the resources available at libraries, urging them to plan their studies effectively.
He emphasized that, with dedication and the proper utilization of academic resources, students can unlock numerous opportunities for their personal, academic, and professional growth, which will ultimately help them reach higher positions in their careers. He urged the students to take the life history of library movement in Andhra desa grandhalaya Sangham, Gadicharla Hari Sarvothama Rao, Ayyanki Venkata Ramanaiah, Vavilaa Gopala krishnaiah and freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Ambedkar, Nehru and present generation great people like APJ Abdul kalam, P V Narasimha Rao, Narendra Modi, the prime Ministers of India and the writers of telugu language.
In his guest address, Dr. Banerjee emphasized the importance of students cultivating a habit of reading textbooks rather than spending excessive time on mobile phones and television. He encouraged students to dedicate their leisure time to gathering reliable information that would aid their academic and professional development. Dr. Banerjee also stressed the role of parents in fostering an environment conducive to nurturing academic talent.
He shared valuable insights on the dos and don’ts of student life, highlighting the negative impact of social media when misused. Furthermore, Dr. Banerjee underscored the benefits of book reading in enhancing memory, concentration, and cognitive abilities, citing inspirational quotes from renowned figures such as Puchalapalli Sundaraiah. He concluded his speech by wishing all the students a happy Children’s Day.
Law students from VIT-AP School of Law joined the initiative, sharing their personal experiences on the impact of reading and the role it plays in their academic and personal journeys. They inspired the young students with stories of how books have broadened their horizons, encouraging them to embrace reading as a lifelong habit.
The School Headmistress, Miss Jhansi, along with other teachers, extended their best wishes to the students on the occasion of Children’s Day. They also expressed their gratitude to the VIT-AP University Librarian, the Dean of VSL, and the library staff—including Mr. Saibabu, Mr. D.V. Prasad—and the Law School students for their efforts in motivating the students to develop reading habits.
Their contribution in organizing the National Library Week celebrations at the school premises was highly appreciated. This visit was part of VIT-AP University’s commitment to educational outreach, aiming to kindle a love for reading among students in the local community.
Finally, the University Librarian expressed his gratitude to the university authorities for providing the necessary facilities for the event and to the school authorities for facilitating the students' participation in the program.