Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 25: The National Library Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and intellectual fervour on the forenoon of August 23 in the Decennial Memorial Hall of the Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI).

The event was presided over by Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, director of FMCI, and graced by Dr Mahabaleshwar Rao, associate professor & deputy chief librarian at the KMC Health Sciences Library, MAHE, Manipal, as the chief guest.

Inspiration behind the celebration

National Library Day is observed annually in honour of Dr S R Ranganathan, the father of Library Science in India, to acknowledge the critical role libraries play in education, research, and knowledge dissemination. The day serves to rekindle a love for reading, promote lifelong learning, and recognise the evolving role of libraries in the digital age.

Highlights

The day was spearheaded by the Central Library of Father Muller Medical College under the dynamic leadership of Dr Janet Dotty Lobo, chief librarian, and her dedicated team. Dressed in vibrant violet, the library staff curated a meaningful and well-orchestrated celebration, bringing together all educational units under FMCI.

A major highlight of the celebration was the much-anticipated inter-collegiate quiz competition, ‘MULLER LIBER – 2025’, conducted by Dr Anil Shetty, professor & head of Paediatrics, as the quiz master. The quiz saw enthusiastic participation from 30 colleges across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, showcasing the academic spirit and competitive zeal of the region.

In his thought-provoking address, Dr Rao emphasised the pivotal role of technology in modern libraries. He elaborated on how apps, software, and digital tools can enhance user engagement and experience, and called for libraries to stay abreast with these evolving trends. He praised the FMCI Library’s efforts in organising a National-level quiz competition, commending the professionalism and quality of the event.

In his presidential address, Fr Faustine posed a profound question: “What is the relevance of a library today?” He articulated that libraries remain sanctuaries of knowledge, contemplation, and self-development. Regardless of technological advancements, libraries continue to serve as essential spaces for personal and academic growth — where reading is not just learning, but a journey toward building a more enlightened self.

The welcome address and introduction of dignitaries by Prof Dr John J S Martis, chairman, Library Committee while reading of winners and contributors was by Dr Janet Dotty Lobo

The vote of thanks read by Dr Agnes, vice principal, Father Muller School and College of Nursing

Event comperes:

Dr Michelle Fernandes, Prof & head, Dermatology
Dr Lakshmi Prabhu, associate professor, General Medicine

‘MULLER LIBER – 2025’ quiz competition results

The celebration of National Library Day 2025 at Father Muller was more than a formal event—it was a reaffirmation of the institution’s commitment to knowledge, learning, and academic excellence. With the Central Library at its heart, FMCI continues to uphold the legacy of intellectual pursuit and holistic development in the service of humanity.

Dr Micheal Santhumayor Administrator FMMC,FMCOAHS, FMCOP and Dr Antony Sylvan D’Souza dean FMMC were seated on the dais.