Patna: Digital libraries will be established in 85 blocks across Bihar within the current financial year, the state’s information technology minister, Shreyasi Singh, told the assembly on Thursday.
Responding to a calling attention motion brought by MLA Alok Mehta, Singh said buildings and space had already been identified in the selected blocks. The process of site selection is also under way in an additional 158 blocks, she added.
The government’s stated aim is to set up one digital library in each of Bihar’s 243 assembly constituencies under the chief minister’s Digital Library Scheme. The initiative is designed to provide students with access to modern technology and digital learning resources.
According to the minister, each digital library will be equipped with high-speed internet connectivity, computer systems and e-learning materials. A state-level digital library is already operational at Biscoman Bhawan in Patna, which Singh described as a model facility on which other libraries will be based.
She said efforts were being accelerated to expand digital libraries at the district and block levels. The process of selecting an agency to provide human resources and necessary office equipment for the operation of the facilities is also under way.
During the discussion, RJD MLA Bhai Virendra suggested that local MLAs be consulted in the selection of sites. Singh responded that altering the current process could lead to delays, but said that the views of public representatives would be taken into account in future stages of the selection process.
