The programme to develop the Jaffna Library into an e-library was inaugurated under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake this morning (01 Sept). 

Accordingly, the website jaffna.dlp.gov.lk was introduced for the Jaffna Public Library, enabling readers to access its collection online through this project. 

The Jaffna Public Library, a symbol of pride for the people of Jaffna, is one of the largest libraries in Asia, housing an extensive collection of books. 

It is used daily by school and university students as well as researchers from both Sri Lanka and abroad. 

At the event, an integrated library management system, a smart card access facility and a special unit equipped with assistive technology for persons with special needs were also introduced for the Jaffna Public Library. 

A sum of Rs. 100 million has been allocated for this project from the 2025 budget.

Following the official launch of the e-library programme, the President toured the reading hall and lending section of the library, engaging in cordial discussions with the staff. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Jaffna District Organizer Geethanath Cassilingam has expressed gratitude to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for allocating Rs.100 million for the development of the Jaffna Library’s infrastructure in this year’s budget. 

Issuing a statement, Geethanath Cassilingam further proposed a more realistic and up-to-date approach, suggesting that part of this fund be utilized to digitize the library’s collection. 

“By going digital, we can protect these priceless books from damage, theft, or disasters like the fire that destroyed so many valuable books in the past. Additionally, it’s important to support digital research tools for students. This will give them the resources they need to succeed in today’s world,” he pointed out. 

Geethanath Cassilingam further said that a future library should not only preserve books but also provide modern digital resources, interactive learning spaces, virtual reality for education, and areas for students to collaborate on projects. 

“Other countries in South Asia already have this in place for their students in order to prepare them for the future. Digitizing the library is an investment in both protecting our cultural history and preparing students for the future,” he added. 

Presenting the 2025 Budget in Parliament on Monday, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said Rs. 100 million has been allocated for upgrades to the Jaffna Public Library. 

He further outlined that Rs. 200 million will be allocated for the development of libraries in other parts of the country. (Newswire)

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