THE Defence Central Library, Karachi, is considered to be one of the best libraries in Pakistan. In this library more than a couple of hundred students hailing from different parts of the country come to prepare for different national and international examinations.

The services of the library management are praiseworthy in many regards and one has to appreciate the role played by it.

Unfortunately, the library’s higher authorities have made a few changes in its timing and membership fees structure since December last. One, Friday which was opened halfday would now be closed the whole day. Two, the library’s usual timing has been reduced by one hour.

Before, it used to be opened 12 hours a day. Three, quarterly membership fees is raised from Rs2,100 to Rs3000 (for category D members) and registration charges have also been increased from Rs1,200 to Rs1,500. Instead of making library membership cheaper and increasing the number of hours, the decision has been taken to the contrary.

It has been learnt that apparently the Defence Central Library is in deficit, owing to its heavy expenses. The decision to raise fees and cut working hours is taken to meet the rising expenses.

The library management should seek help from other sources rather than raise fees and cut working hours. This will affect students heavily as this is the peak time of different examinations.

Therefore, the Defence Central Library’s management is earnestly requested not to decrease timings, and open Friday for a whole day, and not to raise quarterly fees by Rs900. It would be feasible to raise it by Rs300, which is more convenient for members.

BENAZIR HAFEEZ MAHESAR

Karachi