Demand for extended hours in PU extension library

Many residents who believe in promoting reading culture in the industrial city have written a letter to the Vice President of India, who is also the Chancellor of Panjab University, Chandigarh, regarding the ‘inadequate utilisation of the precious treasure of books’ at the Panjab University Extension Library (PUEL) in Ludhiana.

In order to foster reading habits among the younger generation and provide a constructive outlet for retired individuals, the residents have suggested that the PUEL be open for members at least on Saturdays, if not Sundays, and that the library timings be extended until 7 pm on all days.

The library houses around 1,78,559 books, including 4,400 reference books and 962 rare books. Additionally, it subscribes to 16 newspapers and about 60 magazines. While the library has taken steps toward digital operations, it offers students a comfortable reading room in addition to the main reading hall.

The main concern of those interested in the books is ensuring that the library is fully utilised, helping to develop a reading culture similar to that in metropolitan cities like Bangalore, Ahmedabad and Delhi.

Brij Bhushan Goyal, a member of the SCD Government College Alumni Association, has written to both the Vice President of India, stating that the library was established in April 1960 with the goal of fostering a scholarly environment in the industrial hub of Punjab. However, Goyal expressed concern that for over 10 years, access to this valuable resource has been limited due to factors such as the library’s restricted working days and time constraints. At present, the library opens at 9 am and closes at 5 pm. However, in the past, it remained open until 7 pm. The extended timing allowed students and civil services aspirants to make full use of the library, but the reduced hours have led to a decrease in membership, Goyal added.

Many city residents, including students, pointed out that libraries in other areas remain open on Saturdays and Sundays, providing the public with an opportunity to read peacefully. However, the lack of access on weekends has disappointed many members. OP Verma, a local resident who enjoys reading journals, also voiced his concerns over this issue.

Gurnam Singh, a student preparing for the Probationary Officer examination, said the high membership fees is another barrier preventing many from utilising the library. “The security fee is Rs 3,500 and the annual charges are Rs 750. However, we only get access to the library for five days a week. Additionally, if the library security deposit is not claimed within the membership period, it lapses. The government should provide more flexibility in claiming the deposit and promote a reading culture by extending the hours,” Singh said.