New Delhi, February 5-7, 2025 – The much-awaited Global Library Summit 2025 commenced at the South Asian University, New Delhi, bringing together scholars, librarians, and information professionals from across the world. The summit focused on the evolving role of libraries in knowledge preservation, technological advancements, and international collaboration in the field of Library and Information Science (LIS).

Key Presentations from Nepal

Several distinguished Nepali professionals contributed through insightful paper presentations:

1. Libraries and Cultural Heritage Preservation – Presented by Mr. Pushparaj Subedi and Mr. Sanjib Kumar Chaudhary, NLA, focusing on global and Nepali perspectives.
2. E-Resource Centric and User-Centric Analysis of Usage Statistics – A study by Lila Nyaichyai, Sagar Subedi, and Bijaya Sharma, CDLIS-TU
3. Application of Technology in University Libraries and Users’ Satisfaction: A Case of Pokhara University, Nepal – Co-authored by Min Kumari Dallakoti and Anita Bhandari, Ullens School Khumaltar , Lalitpur
4. SAARC Secretariat and its Library Integration with Regional Centers of SAARC and Introduction of REFSALA (Regional Federation of South Asian Library Association) – Presented by Reshma Dangol, SAARC

Other participants from Nepal included Ms. Bhabana Nyaupane (Librarian, Russian Cultural Centre, Kathmandu) and Ms. Subina Maka (Library Assistant, Khwopa College, School of Law, Bhaktapur).

Nepali Student’s Society Program at SAU

A special session, The Role of Soft Power in Foreign Policy, was organized by the Nepali Student’s Society at South Asian University on February 7, featuring Dr. Lila Nyaichyai, a former member of Nepal’s Constituent Assembly, as the keynote speaker. The SAU is providing scholarship for Masters and Ph.D. Students from Nepal. Students of Law, International Relations, Economics, Sociology, and others are currently doing their studies in SAU.

Reaffirmation of REFSALA Establishment

One of the summit’s critical resolutions was the commitment to re-generate a Regional Federation of Library and Information Science (REFSALA) among South Asian nations. Leaders from the LIS community emphasized the urgency of forming this federation within a month. NLA President Mr. Pushparaj Subedi submitted a draft constitution and past activities to initiate REFSALA. A three-membered drafting committee, including representatives from Nepal, India, and Sri Lanka, was tasked with finalizing the constitution, with Mr. Subedi representing Nepal.

Library and Resource Center Visits

Delegates visited several renowned institutions, including:

• Prime Minister Museum, New Delhi
• Central Library of South Asian University (led by Chief Librarian Mr. Abdullah)

Strengthening Regional Ties in LIS

The summit provided an invaluable networking platform, fostering relationships with key LIS professionals, including:

• Prof KK Aggarwal, President, South Asian University
• Dr. Preethi Liyanage (President, Sri Lanka Library Association)
• Dr. Dilara Begum (Chairperson, Department of Information Studies, Bangladesh)
• Central and Regional Library Association Leaders from India
• University professors, educationists, and government officials from South Asian nations
• Nepali Students of South Asia University

Inaugural Ceremony and Key Addresses

The summit began with an address by Prof. Pankaj Jain (VP, SAU), emphasizing the balance between digital transformation and traditional libraries. Prof. P.V. Konnur (President, LIS Academy) lauded GLS 2025 as a pioneering initiative uniting LIS professionals across borders.

Dr. P.R. Goswami (Director, GLS 2025) highlighted library diplomacy as a key tool for knowledge exchange. The inaugural address by Prof. Anil Sahasrabudhe (Chairman, NETF, NAAC, and NBA, New Delhi) focused on AI integration, the “One Nation – One Subscription” model, and libraries’ evolving role in shaping global citizens.

Book Launches and Special Awards

Two significant books were launched:

• Tune Your Brain by Dr. Lata Suresh
• Eye That Discerns (a poetry collection) by Prof. Jagtar Singh

A pre-launch of Mapping Feminist International Relations in South Asia: Past and Present was also celebrated, edited by Dr. Shweta Singh and Amena Mohsin, symbolizing an intellectual bridge between South Asian nations.

A Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Prof. K.K. Aggarwal, President of SAU, for his contributions to higher education and library science.

Conclusion

The Global Library Summit 2025 successfully highlighted the role of libraries in knowledge sharing, cultural heritage preservation, and international collaboration. With robust discussions, ground breaking initiatives like REFSALA, and significant networking opportunities, GLS 2025 marked a milestone in global LIS development, paving the way for future innovations in library diplomacy and digital transformation.