Neiphiu Rio addressing gathering during the inauguration of automated NLA library in Kohima on February 9. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | February 9
Nagaland’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today inaugurated the fully automated and digitized library and the modernized Training Room of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) here at the Assembly secretariat.
Speaking on the occasion, Rio said that a knowledge-based well structured, professionally organised library and information service could positively impact upon the quality of performance of the individual legislator as well as the collective body of the Assembly.
He said that it is important to bear in mind that a well informed legislature can help to bring about an informed population which is the greatest asset for a democracy. He said the quality of service provide by the library plays an important role.
A modern library is not just a collection of books, products and service but also a gateway to outside sources and the world. He said the vision for a good library for the legislators should be to transform itself into a professional, knowledge-based, technologically updated institution, providing quality service to the legislators.
Lauding NLA speaker for the initiative for incorporating the latest technologies into the functioning of the Assembly’s Library, he said “This is yet another step in the direction of paperless governance too.”
Asking to make the best use of the Library, Rio said “we should cultivate the habit of reading” and stay updated.
Deputy chief minister Y. Patton said that traditionally, library is seen only as a source of information but modern library with internet connectivity provides access to so much more within a very little time.
“I believe that this library will not just be a repository of books but will provide an effective information management service to all the members and will also replace paper-based processes creating a congenial atmosphere for effective time, resources and paper documents management,” Patton said.
He said the process of digitization and automation of the library will enhance the effectiveness of parliamentary information significantly and is not only rewarding but it has become a necessity due to technological advances and expectations of this century.
NLA speaker Sharingan Longkumer said that the automated library is a milestone in the chapter of the NLA as the Assembly Secretariat takes its first step to be integrated and encapsulated in a technology driven governance.”
He said the NLA Library houses a huge collection of books and precious records starting from the days of the Interim period.
He said the need for safe keeping of such important documents, at the same time, enabling easier handling and access has become paramount.
In the current digitisation and automation process, all the proceedings of the House starting from the Interim period were digitized and archived in a digital repository and the process can be scalable for digitizing other records also, he said.
After the digital revamping process, publications of “Who is Who” (Legislators) can be presented in the globally accepted Wiki format now, he said.
He said with the inauguration of the Training Room, the legislators and officers will now have the opportunity to interact and train on the use of our very own customized applications by trainers and resource persons from the Parliament.
“These two achievements have opened the opportunity for Nagaland Legislative Assembly to expeditiously implement complete digitisation and integration of the entire Assembly Secretariat. The dream of a paperless Assembly proceedings begins today as a prelude to the comprehensive implementation of e-vidhan,” he said.
Neiba Kronu, minister for planning & coordination, land revenue and parliamentary affairs also spoke on the occasion.
Vote of thanks was proposed by NLA commissioner & secretary Dr. P.J. Antony.
About Nagaland Legislative Assembly Library
The Nagaland Legislative Assembly Library caters to the information needs of the users with the assistance of printed books on different subjects such as Debates, Reports, and Periodicals etc.
The Library is automated using Integrated Library Management Software - KOHA.
The Library is monitored through CCTV surveillance. The Library also provides reprography services and digital scanning to digitize proceedings, archival materials etc.
The NLA Library also maintains an institutional repository using DSPACE which host various research documents of the Assembly.
