Father of the Public Library Movement in Chhattisgarh State and First President of Chhattisgarh Library Association Dr. Kundan played a pivotal role in promoting the public library movement in Chhattisgarh by:
Founding the Chhattisgarh Library Association (CGLA): He was instrumental in establishing the CGLA, which provided a platform for library professionals to collaborate and enhance library services in the state.
Founding the Chhattisgarh Library Network (CGLN): He was instrumental in establishing the CGLN, which provided a platform for library network for enhance library services in the state.
Advocacy and Awareness: Dr. Kundan actively advocated for the importance of libraries in society, emphasizing their role in education and community development.
Library Development: He contributed to the establishment and improvement of public libraries across Chhattisgarh, ensuring they serve as valuable resources for learning and cultural engagement.
Professional Development: Through the CGLA, he facilitated the exchange of knowledge among librarians, which helped in raising the standards of librarianship in the region.
Community Engagement: Dr. Kundan encouraged community involvement in libraries, making them centers for social and cultural activities, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and pride among the residents. His efforts have had a lasting impact on the library infrastructure and culture in Chhattisgarh, making libraries accessible and relevant to the needs of the community.
Dr. Kundan work has been a significant contribution to the literacy and educational landscape of the state. Dr. Kundan additional contributions to the public library movement include:
Educational Initiatives: He worked towards integrating libraries with educational programs, ensuring that libraries support the curriculum and serve as learning hubs.
Technology Integration: Recognizing the importance of technology in modern education, Dr. Kundan advocated for the inclusion of digital resources and internet access in libraries to broaden the scope of information available to the public.
Cultural Programs: He organized cultural events and programs at libraries to engage the community and promote reading and lifelong learning.
Training and Workshops: Dr. Kundan conducted training sessions and workshops for library staff to enhance their skills and ensure they are equipped to meet the evolving needs of library users.
Library Legislation: He was a proponent of library legislation to ensure that libraries are recognized as essential public institutions and receive adequate funding and support.
Rural Library Development: Understanding the need for library services in rural areas, he focused on the expansion of library services to these regions, making information and resources accessible to all.
Dr. Kundan efforts have not only helped in the establishment of libraries but also in creating a sustainable ecosystem where libraries continue to evolve and serve the needs of the community effectively. His vision and dedication have left a lasting legacy in the library movement of Chhattisgarh. Certainly, here are more examples of Dr. Kundan contributions to the public library movement:
Library Infrastructure: Dr. Kundan was involved in the planning and development of library buildings and facilities, ensuring they were well-equipped and conducive to reading and learning.
Fundraising and Grants: He played a key role in securing funding for libraries through grants, donations, and government support, which was crucial for their operation and expansion.
Outreach Programs: Dr. Kundan initiated outreach programs to bring library services to underserved populations, including mobile libraries and book delivery services for those unable to visit the library in person.
Literacy Campaigns: He championed literacy campaigns that were closely tied to library services, promoting reading and writing skills among all age groups.
Collaborations with Educational Institutions: Dr. Kundan fostered partnerships between libraries and schools, colleges, and universities to support academic research and provide students with access to a broader range of learning materials.
Preservation of Local Culture: He encouraged libraries to preserve local literature, folklore, and cultural artifacts, making them centers for cultural heritage.
Policy Formulation: Dr. Kundan contributed to the formulation of library policies and standards, which helped in maintaining a consistent quality of service across the state’s public libraries.
Dr. Kundan is rightly acknowledged as the Architect of the Chhattisgarh Library Network and the Father of the Public Library Movement in Chhattisgarh State. Additionally, he holds the distinction of being the First President of the Chhattisgarh Library Association. These initiatives by Dr. Kundan have greatly influenced the library landscape in Chhattisgarh, making libraries a cornerstone of the community’s educational and cultural life. His legacy continues to inspire library development and service enhancement throughout the region.