Aligarh: The IASLIC 30th National Seminar-2024, ‘Information Literacy for Developing Enlightened Library/Information User Community in the New Age’, was inaugurated at the University Polytechnic Auditorium.

The seminar was jointly organized by the Department of Library and Information Science at Aligarh Muslim University and the Indian Association of Special Libraries and Information Centres.

The ceremony's highlight was a keynote address by the Chief Guest Prof Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor of IGNOU. Her lecture, titled ‘Information Literacy Trends: Navigating the Digital Landscape’, explored cutting-edge technologies such as blockchain, virtual and augmented reality, and the evolution of digital libraries, underscoring the shifting role of libraries in the digital era.

AMU Vice-Chancellor Prof Naima Khatoon, delivered the presidential address, expressing appreciation to the organizers for choosing a theme that aligns with current academic challenges.

She called for the continuation of such scholarly engagements. The ceremony also featured the presentation of a Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr AL Moorty for his visionary leadership in the field. Additionally, the distinguished guests released an abstract volume of the seminar.

The seminar’s theme was further elaborated by Abhijeet Kumar, General Secretary of IASLIC, who outlined its significance, while Prof Shafey Kidwai, Co-Patron of the seminar, offered a thought-provoking analysis of the theme, focusing on the convergence of information technology and media literacy with contemporary examples.

Prof M Masoom Raza, Organizing Secretary and Chairman of the Department of Library and Information Science, delivered the welcome address. Prof NR Satayanarayan, Director of the seminar, emphasized the critical need for skill development in his opening remarks. Prof Narendra Lahkar, President of IASLIC, emphasized the importance of information literacy in today’s digital world.

The event concluded with an exchange of mementoes, a vote of thanks by Dr Kishwar Jahan, and the rendition of the University Tarana and National Anthem.