The Central Library of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) extended a warm and enthusiastic welcome to the trainee participants of the ongoing 21-Day ICAR-Sponsored Winter School on Molecular Mapping of Genome and Genes at the Institute of Biotechnology.
Participants hail from Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat.
During their dedicated visit to the Central Library, Main Campus, Chatha amid the ongoing Winter School, participants actively explored the state-of-the-art facilities. The libraries served as a vital resource hub, enabling in-depth research and literature review on molecular biology, genomics, biotechnology directly supporting their training objectives.
Unique Features Highlighted During their tour includes Extensive Specialized Collections, Modern Digital and E-Resource Access, Innovative User-Friendly Facilities Self Check-in/Check-out Section, Buffer Lobby, Waiting Lounge & Display Area, OPAC Terminals, and QR Code Initiative highly praised for efficiency and time-saving during intensive sessions, Green Zone Reading Area A peaceful, eco-friendly, serene reading space with natural lighting, indoor plants, comfortable seating, wooden flooring for noise reduction, sky windows, and season-friendly tranquil corners. Tailored for various preferences (solace zones, introvert corners, serene reading areas), this tranquil environment fosters deep concentration, reflection, and relaxation perfect for focused review of complex topics like molecular mapping and QTL applications, Heritage Section Dedicated display of primitive Dogra heritage, traditional culture, historical political scenarios of Jammu, and rare documents, offering cultural enrichment alongside scientific pursuits and other Supportive Amenities Environment friendly ambience, General Reading Area, and electronic media displays supporting collaboration, Concentric study zones for quiet study, huddle area for brief interaction.
The libraries embody Dr. S.R. Ranganathans Five Laws of Library Science, foundational principles visibly reflected in the participant experience. Central Library team apprised participants that librarys recent growth is made possible under the visionary leadership of the Vice-Chancellor (Prof. B.N. Tripathi) which offers a unique space for learning in harmony with nature, traditional and digital resources.
Participants described their library visit as highly enriching, calling the facilities outstandingly modern, exceptionally supportive, and instrumental in enhancing the ongoing Winter School. They specially commended the QR Code Initiative for innovative convenience, the tranquil and serene Green Zone Reading Area for its peaceful, inspiring ambiance ideal for concentrated study, seamless digital resources, prompt staff assistance, quiet spaces, and alignment with Ranganathans Five Laws deepening their insights into molecular genetics, QTL mapping, and stress-related traits.
Under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) R K Samnotra, University Librarian, and the dedicated team including Mr. Leela Dhar Mangi (Assistant Librarian), Dr. Amit Sharma, Dr. Asha Rani, Dr. Meenakshi Devi (Senior Library Assistants), and supporting staffthe libraries provided exemplary hospitality and support.
The infrastructure & services were excellent, and our visit to the library particularly the QR Code Initiative and serene Green Zone Reading Areahas made our ongoing research and study sessions highly productive and tranquil, shared Dr. Shourabh Joshi a participant from Agriculture University, Jodhpur Jodhpur, Rajasthan. We are delighted to welcome these esteemed Associate/Assistant Professors, Scientists, and equivalents from SAUs and ICAR institutes. Guided by Ranganathans Five Laws, our facilities, said Prof. (Dr.) R K Samnotra, University Librarian. The Winter School, coordinated by Prof. Manmohan Sharma and Dr. Susheel Sharma from the Institute of Biotechnology is providing advanced training to 25 distinguished participants across India.