ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture expressed serious concern over the deteriorating condition of the National Library of Pakistan and directed the National Heritage and Culture Division to take immediate administrative measures to improve its facilities, management, and public services.
In a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture, chaired by its Chairperson Syeda Nousheen Iftikhar it emphasised the need to strengthen Pakistan’s cultural institutions, accelerate the digitisation of the country’s literary heritage, and promote the rich cultural traditions of all regions, particularly South Punjab and Saraiki heritage.
Reviewing the implementation status of its previous recommendations, the NA panel was informed that significant progress had been made in updating the Ministry’s rules, regulations, and legislative framework, with several rules already approved, while the remaining proposals were under consideration by the National Assembly. During a comprehensive briefing on the National Library of Pakistan, the NA panel acknowledged the Ministry’s efforts to modernise library services through digitisation despite financial constraints. It also appreciated the National Library’s role in preserving Pakistan’s literary heritage through the conservation of rare manuscripts, legal deposit functions, ISBN registration, and digitisation initiatives.
It stressed the need to accelerate the digitisation of rare publications and improve public access to knowledge resources by strengthening research facilities and expanding outreach programmes.
The members expressed dissatisfaction over the poor maintenance of the library, including unhygienic facilities, inadequate internet connectivity, non-functional infrastructure, and a lack of effective administrative oversight. It directed the Division to address these deficiencies on a priority basis and submit a detailed report on visitor statistics, staffing, vacant positions, membership, and internally generated revenue at its next meeting.
The NA panel also received a detailed presentation on the representation of Saraiki and South Punjab’s cultural heritage at the National Heritage Museum.
Appreciating the efforts to preserve Pakistan’s diverse cultural identity, the NA panel recommended enhanced cultural exhibitions, stronger collaboration among cultural institutions, and increased opportunities for artisans, craftsmen, and young people to showcase and preserve the country’s traditional heritage.
The Pakistan National Council of the Arts also briefed the NA panel on its ongoing programmes in music, theatre, fine arts, cultural performances, workshops, exhibitions, and youth development. While appreciating PNCA’s contribution to promoting arts and culture, the NA panel emphasised the importance of expanding opportunities for emerging artists and ensuring greater public participation in cultural activities.
