Special lecture on “Emerging Technologies in Libraries” and “Features and Functions of KOHA”

Chandigarh, January 23, 2024: The Department of Library and Information Science, Panjab University, Chandigarh, successfully organized special lectures on “Emerging Technologies in Libraries” and “Features and Functions of KOHA”. The chairperson of the department welcomed the resource person and participants. Dr Pokuri Venkata Rao fellow at Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration, Chandigarh, was the resource person. Mukul Pandey, Research Scholar of the department, introduced the resource person and theme of the lecture.

Dr Pokuri Venkata Rao shared his experience of working in libraries, emphasizing the importance of communication for librarians. He asserted, "As a librarian, you have to be communicative." Dr Rao discussed the attitude and skills required for a career in librarianship, delving into both hard and soft skills. He posed a thought-provoking question to students, encouraging them to contemplate "why I should be considered for a particular position." Additionally, Dr Rao highlighted the constant evolution of technology, tracing its progression from the PC industry in the 1980s to the Internet in 1995 and culminating in the Intelligence era in 2022.In his lecture, Dr Rao provided insights into emerging technologies in libraries. The major technologies he highlighted included Data Science, Big Data, Computer Vision, Natural Language Programming, Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Cloud Computing, Blockchain, IoT, 5G/6G, AR/VR/MR/Metaverse, 3D Printing, Drones, Quantum Computing, and Nano Technology. He discussed the significant areas of application for these emerging technologies within the library context. Furthermore, he delved into the features and functions of KOHA during his lecture.

Today’s lecture was attended by about 70 participants. Mr Jasbeer, Research Scholar of department, presented a vote of thanks.