24 January 2004	Saturday	01 Zilhaj 1424

KARACHI, Jan 23: Karachi University Vice Chancellor Dr Pirzada Qasim Raza Siddiqui has said that libraries are the symbols of a nation's literary, historical and cultural legacy.

He was speaking at a ceremony held in his honour at Dr Mehmood Hussain Library, KU, on Friday. Dr Pirzada Qasim said importance of book had not diminished even in this modern age and one could access a variety of books within no time through internet.

The VC pointed out that the central library was constructed in 1964 when the enrolment of students at KU was about 2,500, which had now risen to over 12,000 in the morning shift and up to 6,000 in the evening shift, which needed expansion in the library building.

Prof Siddiqui was of the view that there should be a separate science library. Earlier, welcoming Dr Pirzada Qasim on taking charge as KU VC, the Deputy Librarian, Syeda Arjumand Bano, observed that Dr Pirzada was known for his interest in science and literature. She expressed hope that the VC would personally monitor the expansion in the library.-PPI