Libraries, often referred to as the treasure troves of knowledge, stand tall in every educational institution. They are filled with lockers housing countless books and references—repositories of wisdom, history, science, and culture. However, in this modern era, the reality is disheartening: only a small percentage of students truly engage with the wealth of knowledge available within these lockers.

As a teacher in a college that boasts an extensive library catering to Arts, Commerce, Science, Music, and Physical Education, I have observed this trend firsthand. While some students do enter the library halls, many use the serene environment not to immerse themselves in books but to scroll through their mobile phones, chatting or reading soft copies of materials. This behavior reflects a significant shift in learning habits, driven by the digital age.
The library, once bustling with inquisitive minds and the rustling of pages, now often resembles a calm, almost empty hall with vacant chairs. Many students prefer spending their free time outdoors, engaged in games or other distractions, rather than investing it in the enriching experience that a library offers. The allure of instant gratification from digital devices seems to outweigh the deep, reflective learning that comes from engaging with physical books.
This trend is alarming. Libraries are not just about accessing information—they are about fostering critical thinking, curiosity, and a love for learning. The tactile experience of holding a book, flipping its pages, and diving into its depths cannot be replicated by digital screens. Moreover, reference books provide insights that are often absent from online summaries and quick reads.
As an educator, I have always emphasized the importance of utilizing the library. I encourage my students to spend time in this sanctuary of learning, to explore the bookshelves, and to discover the joy of reading beyond their syllabi. But this requires more than just verbal motivation. It calls for consistent efforts in counseling students about the benefits of reading and the necessity of dedicating time to books.
Colleges and schools need to play a proactive role in this revival. Workshops, reading sessions, and guided tours of the library can help students appreciate its value. Teachers can design assignments that require the use of reference books, compelling students to explore these resources. Libraries, too, need to evolve—incorporating both digital and physical resources to meet the diverse needs of students while maintaining the charm of traditional reading.
It is also crucial to instill a culture of curiosity and a love for reading early in a student’s academic journey. Parents and teachers must collaborate to show students the power of books in shaping their thoughts, broadening their perspectives, and enhancing their knowledge.
A library is not just a room filled with books; it is a gateway to countless worlds, ideas, and possibilities. The silence of the library is not meant for idle scrolling on mobile phones but for a deep connection with words that can inspire and transform lives. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the sleeping halls of libraries awaken once again with the presence of eager learners and the rustle of pages turned by curious minds.
Let us work together to revive the love for libraries and make them vibrant centers of knowledge, exploration, and inspiration. For, as the saying goes, “A library is not a luxury but one of the necessities of life.”

Email:---------------------aasifdar46@gmail.com