From The Navhind Times, 25th May 2016
Directorate of Art and Culture awarded the ‘Best Library’ to Bookworm library, Taleigao, and the ‘Best Librarian’ to curator, Krishnadas Shama Goa State Central Library, Carlos Fernandes, for the year 2014-15, at the Sanskruti Bhavan, Panaji.
Bookworm library transcends the traditional notion of a quiet book reading space, and moves out to children in various corners of the state. The library, which was founded by Sujata Noronha is actively involved in various activities and aims to inculcate the habit of reading among children. The bookworm team also travels out to various slum areas and conducts reading sessions and also lends books. Along with this, the library conducts various activities for children. They were awarded a memento and cash prize of `50,000. Curator, Krishnadas Shama Goa State Central Library, Carlos Fernandes has played a key role in the inception of several libraries in Goa. He has worked at several libraries and his work has been revered by all. He was awarded a shawl, a memento and a cash prize of `25,000.
Chief guest and Minister for Art and Culture, Dayanand Mandrekar in his address appreciated the efforts of awardees and those who take the initiative to inculcate the reading habit and strive to develop it everyday.
Guest of honour and secretary, Art and Culture, Daulat Hawaldar also echoed a similar message in his address. He also appreciated the efforts and support of the state government, which has developed an excellent infrastructure for public libraries in Goa.
Director, Art and Culture, Prasad Lolayekar spoke about the plans the directorate has in mind to develop the State Central Library as a centre of knowledge and to encourage the habit of reading among children in the state.