Manipal, 23^rd February 2025: The KMC Health Sciences Library & Department of Library and Information Science Manipal Academy of Higher Education organised the 6th National Conference on Management of Modern Libraries (NACML) on 21st and 22nd February at Dr TMA Pai Hall KMC Administrative Building Manipal, Karnataka. The conference based on the theme "Shaping the Future of Academic Libraries: Trends and Prospects" aimed.

The conference addressed the evolving role of academic libraries in the digital age, focusing on technological innovations, user experience enhancement, and the transformation of traditional library spaces into dynamic learning environments. Over 200 library and information science professionals from across India participated in the event, which featured 7 invited talks, 8 product demonstrations, and 4 specialised technical sessions.

Inaugurating the National Conference Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Manipal emphasised the critical role of libraries in providing world-class learning and research infrastructure and advocated for the integration of innovative technologies to meet user demands. “MAHE prioritises the development of cutting-edge library facilities that support both learning and research," he said.

Participating in the inaugural function Dr. Raviraja N.S., Chief Operating Officer, MAHE, Manipal highlighted the transformative power of artificial intelligence in modern libraries. "We're witnessing a revolution in information management and research support," he noted. "AI-driven solutions are making our libraries more responsive and efficient in meeting the academic community's evolving needs."

Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, Dean of Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, said, “The integration of advanced technologies not only enhances accessibility but also plays a pivotal role in fostering critical thinking and lifelong learning. Modern libraries must evolve beyond conventional boundaries, leveraging digital resources and innovative tools to empower users with seamless, efficient, and enriched learning experiences.”

In the inaugural session, Dr. K. Shivananda Bhat, Organizing Chairperson, indicated and enlisted the objectives of and the purpose of holding the 6th NACML at Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal. Dr. Satish Kanamadi, Conference Director, briefed about the conference, papers to be presented, product demonstrations, division of technical sessions, and several invited talks during two days of the conference.

The conference witnessed the enthusiastic and active participation of LIS professionals across the globe. The keynote speech was delivered by Dr. Nabi Hasan, head librarian of the Central Library of IIT, New Delhi. The conference had 7 invited talks, 8 product demonstrations, 4 technical sessions on different themes, and a panel discussion about the future of academic libraries.

The speakers included Dr. Shivaram Rao K, Associate Professor and Head, Dept. of Library and Information Science, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, Dr. Balachandra, Professor, Dept of Information and Communication Technology, MAHE, Manipal, Dr. B.T Sampath Kumar, Professor, Department of Studies and Research in Library and Information Science, Tumkur University, Tumakuru., Dr. Ramesh C Gaur Dean & Director-Library and Information Head-Kalanidhi Division, Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts, Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Dr.M.Sadiq Batcha, Professor and Head Department of Library and Information Science, Annamalai University, Tamilnadu, Dr.Jayadev B Kumbar, Founding Deputy Librarian, MIT-Vishwaprayag University, Solapur, Maharashtra.

Dr. Mahabaleshwara Rao, Convener of the conference, Associate Professor, and Deputy Chief Librarian at the Department of Library and Information Science and KMC Health Sciences Library, MAHE, Manipal, delivered the vote of thanks speech. Dr. Rekha D. Pai, Chief Librarian at Manipal Institute of Technology and Associate Professor at the Department of Library and Information Science, Manipal Academy of Higher Education Manipal, Manipal, was the master of the ceremony.