I am Dr. M.S. Girish Rathod, Academician, Professor, a passionate practicing librarian, and researcher dedicated to transforming the world of Library and Information Science. With over two decades of experience, I have been at the forefront of library automation, digital resource management, and academic research, shaping the future of knowledge accessibility. 

Passionate about knowledge, innovation, and the evolving world of information science, I am dedicated to making learning accessible and impactful. As a seasoned professional in Library and Information Science, I have been at the forefront of digital transformation in academic libraries, spearheading automation, digital repositories, and cutting-edge information management strategies.

With over two decades of experience, I have not only built and enhanced library systems but also mentored students, collaborated on research, and contributed to global conversations on information technology. My journey is fueled by a deep love for books, a commitment to knowledge dissemination, and a vision for the future of libraries in the digital age.

Beyond my professional role, I am an explorer—of ideas, places, and possibilities. Whether curating knowledge resources, writing insightful articles, or engaging in academic discussions, my goal remains the same: to empower individuals with the right information at the right time.

I, was born on June 5, 19xx, my mother's hometown in Bilaki-Hebbandi Tanda, Bhadravati Taluk, Shimoga District, Karnataka. Growing up in the picturesque Malnad region, I belonged to a humble agricultural farmer family. My parents, Sakra Naik and Nagi Bai, worked hard to support our large family of six children—three brothers and two sisters.

I began my early education at the Government Primary School in Bilaki-Hebbandi Tanda, a mono-teacher Kannada medium school, where I studied from 1st to 7th standard. Despite limited resources, my schooling laid a strong foundation for my future endeavors.

Proud of my Indian heritage, Banjara culture and traditions and Gorboli dialects. I later built a family of my own. I am united with  Ashalatha Pawar, a dedicated banking professional, and together, we have beautiful blessings —princess Pushpitha Priyakeerti Rathod and prince Mannvir Mitranshu Rathod, who are currently in their early years of schooling. Presently residing at my father's hometown, Malavagoppa, Shimoga. 

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – Library & Information Science

📍 Kuvempu University, Karnataka | Awarded in 2016
📝 Research Topic: Design and Development of an Information Support System for Fashion and Apparel Industry.

Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) – Library & Information Science

📍 Alagappa University, Tamil Nadu | 2008

Master of Science (M.Sc.) – Library & Information Science

📍 Kuvempu University, Karnataka | 2004

Master of Arts (M.A.) – English

📍 Karnataka State Open University, (KSOU) Karnataka | 2015

Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Human Resource Management

📍 Indira Gandhi National Open University,(IGNOU), New Delhi | 2014

UGC-NET & K-SET (Qualified)

📍 UGC-NET (2010 & 2013) | K-SET (2013)

Bachelor’s Degree – Sahyadri College, Shimoga

📍 Kuvempu University, Karnataka | 2001

Pre-University, Secondary & Primary Education

📍 DVS (Independent) Pre-University College, Shimoga (PUC +2) | 1998
📍 National High School, Shimoga (SSLC – 10th) | 1996
📍 Govt. Primary School, Bilaki - Hebbandi, Bhadravati (7th) | 1993

College Librarian (Associate Professor Grade), Government First Grade College, Ayanur               

📍 Shivamogga, Karnataka | 2017 – Present

• Spearheading library automation by implementing Koha and eG4 Cloud, making the institution’s library fully digital.

• Enhancing information accessibility by developing a cloud-based institutional repository and streamlining e-resources management.

• Conducting workshops and training programs for faculty and students on digital literacy, research methodologies, and AI in library sciences.

• Leading the Library Advisory Committee, ensuring seamless book selection, acquisition, and digital resource management.

• Initiated MOOCs integration for students, bridging the gap between traditional and modern learning methods.

Head of Library & Information Center, Government First Grade College, Sirsi

📍 Sirsi, Karnataka | 2010 – 2017

• Modernized the college library, increasing its collection from a few hundred books to 30,000+ titles.

• Successfully computerized the entire library, introducing OPAC systems for efficient cataloging.

• Organized national conferences and book fairs, promoting knowledge-sharing and industry collaboration.

• Introduced circulation policies and digital archiving, improving library user experience.

Head & Information Officer, Rajiv Gandhi Group of Institutions, Bangalore.

📍 Bangalore, Karnataka | 2004 – 2010

• Developed a specialized information support system for engineering and technology students.

• Led the automation of Dental & Nursing College libraries, ensuring a structured knowledge management system. 

• Implemented AI-based resource indexing, making research materials more accessible.

• Served as a mentor and research guide for students in Library Science and Information Systems.

Government First Grade College, Ayanur (2017 – Present)

• Library Advisory & Book Selection Committee – Convener (2017 – Present)
  
  

• ICT/AISHE/UGC/Website & e-Governance Committee – Convener (2018 – Present)
  
  

• UUCMS/Sakala/Sevasindhu/MOOCs/NAD (e-Governance) Committee – Convener (2020 – Present)
  
  

• Sports Committee – Convener (2018 – 2022)

Government First Grade College, Sirsi (2010 – 2017)

• Library Advisory & Book Selection Committee – Convener (2010 – 2017)
  
  

• Student Welfare & Discipline Committee – Member & Convener (2011 – 2016)
  
  

• Placement Cell – Convener & Member (2014 – 2017)
  
  

• Magazine Editorial Committee – Member (2014 – 2016)
  
  

• Examination Committee – Member (2014 – 2016)

Rajiv Gandhi Group of Institutions, Bangalore (2004 – 2010)

• Engineering, Dental, B.Ed and Nursing College Library & Information Center Convener (2004-2010)

• Admission Committee – Member (2004 – 2010)
  
  

• Examination Committee – Member (2004 – 2010)
  
  

• Sports & Hospitality Committee – Member (2004 – 2010)
  
  

• AICTE & VTU Compliance Committee – Member (2004 – 2010)
  
  

• Men’s Hostel – Warden (2004 – 2010)

🏛 Roles & Responsibilities (State & National Level) 

📌 Member – College Library Manual Drafting & Editorial Committee

📍 Department of Collegiate Education, Government of Karnataka
🗓 Academic Year 2014-15 & 2015-16.

• Contributed to drafting the "College Library Manual", a key guideline document for library professionals in Karnataka.

• Served on the Editorial Committee, ensuring the manual aligned with academic and institutional standards.

📌 Convener – Library Development & Automation

📍 Department of Collegiate Education, Shimoga Region
🗓 Academic Year 2020-21 to Present

• Leading library modernization efforts across collegiate institutions in Shimoga region.

• Spearheading automation projects, including the implementation of eG4 Cloud, and digital repositories.

• Conducting faculty training and awareness programs to enhance digital literacy among librarians and educators.