KARACHI, Feb 5: The standards of a majority of the libraries run by the Sindh Directorate of Culture are in continuous decline for want of funds and attention. These are the findings of a report prepared by the directorate.

The directorate runs 14 libraries in Sindh including the Liaquat Memorial Library of Karachi and a mobile library in Larkana.

The report also says that some vital posts including those of assistant directors and librarians have been lying vacant since long. This is a major reason behind the dismal state of these establishments.

The report also says that most of the hefty budgetary allocations meant for libraries are spent on salaries and administrative expenditures and a negligible amount goes for books and maintenance of libraries.

The report says the Liaquat Memorial Library of Karachi, popular among scholars and students, is in dire need of funds for repairs and renovation. Its air-conditioning plant has become obsolete. The government had earmarked funds for its maintenance which were later stopped. As a result, the reading room is without an air- conditioner.

The stack rooms are in deplorable condition and many valuable books in various stages of destruction. The Sindh government had pledged an annual grant of Rs1.5 million to refurbish this library and purchase of books but the grant was stopped.

The report recommends increase in the allocations for Khairpur Public Library, Daudpota Library Hyderabad, and other libraries in the province to re-cultivate reading habits among the people especially among the younger generation.