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By Bhabana Nyoupane

This year, we are excited to celebrate the 18th National Library Day on August 31 under the theme “Our Library: Our Future”. The initiative is led by the Government of Nepal’s Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology. The Russian House in Kathmandu has been a continuous collaborator in honoring National Library Day in Nepal since its inception. The main official event will take place at the Russian House as part of our commitment to promoting literacy and the importance of libraries in shaping the future.

The theme “Our Library: Our Future” underscores the pivotal role libraries play in shaping the educational and cultural landscape of society. It highlights how libraries serve as gateways to knowledge and innovation, equipping individuals with the tools they need to succeed in an ever‑evolving world. By investing in libraries today, we invest in the future of our communities and ensure that future generations have access to the resources and opportunities necessary for growth and development.

Library Day is a special occasion that celebrates the vital role libraries play in our communities, emphasizing literacy and access to information. It is an opportunity to recognize libraries’ contributions to education and community development and to encourage people to support and make use of these invaluable resources in their pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.

All government bodies, local authorities, universities, library associations, NGOs, and INGOs dedicated to advancing library and information services are encouraged to commemorate National Library Day across Nepal with a variety of programs and activities. These may include award ceremonies, health camps, literary evenings, film screenings, discussion forums, rallies, and awareness campaigns. Through such events, libraries create vibrant spaces for learning and dialogue, foster community engagement, and promote important social issues.

Russia observes Knowledge Day on September 1, a significant occasion that marks the beginning of the school year. This day is not merely a transition from summer to autumn; it symbolizes a renewed commitment to education and the pursuit of knowledge. Schools across the country hold ceremonies to welcome students, and the atmosphere is filled with excitement as students don their uniforms and bring bouquets of flowers for their teachers. This annual celebration reminds us of the importance of education in shaping the future of individuals and society as a whole.

In Russia, Knowledge Day and Nepal’s National Library Day share a common purpose: cultivating education and fostering a culture of reading. Both events aim to create environments that encourage learning and literacy among students and the broader community. By celebrating these occasions, organizers seek to inspire a passion for knowledge and to empower individuals to expand their horizons and contribute to the intellectual growth of their societies.