Understanding the National Central Library Committee

The question asks about the head of the National Central Library Committee that was formed in 1948. This committee played a significant role in the context of library development in India after independence.

Committees like this are usually formed to address specific areas of concern or to plan for future development. In this case, the committee was tasked with matters related to the National Central Library, which is a crucial institution for the country's knowledge infrastructure.

Analysing the Options

We are given four options for the head of the committee:

1. S Radhakrishnan
2. S R Ranganathan
3. K P Sinha
4. MD sen

To answer this question correctly, we need to identify which of these personalities chaired the National Central Library Committee constituted in 1948.

The Role of S. R. Ranganathan

Dr. S. R. Ranganathan is widely regarded as the father of library science in India. His contributions to the field are immense, including the Five Laws of Library Science and the Colon Classification system. Given his stature and expertise, it is highly probable that he would be involved in key committees related to library development in India.

Historical records confirm that the National Central Library Committee, established by the Government of India in 1948, was indeed chaired by Dr. S. R. Ranganathan. The committee's recommendations were vital for shaping the future of the National Library of India and library services across the country.

Examining Other Options

Let's briefly consider the other options:

• S Radhakrishnan: Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a prominent philosopher, statesman, and the second President of India. While a very important figure, his primary association was not directly with library science committees of this nature.
• K P Sinha: While there might be individuals named K P Sinha involved in various capacities, none is prominently known as the chairman of this specific, significant library committee.
• MD sen: Similarly, MD Sen is not a widely recognized figure in the history of Indian library committees, particularly the one formed in 1948.

Based on historical facts and the significant contributions of Dr. S. R. Ranganathan to Indian librarianship, he is the correct individual who headed the National Central Library Committee in 1948.

Conclusion

The National Central Library Committee constituted in 1948 was headed by Dr. S. R. Ranganathan, a towering figure in the field of library science.

Revision Table: National Central Library Committee

Here's a quick summary:

• Committee Name: National Central Library Committee
• Year of Constitution: 1948
• Chairman: Dr. S. R. Ranganathan
• Significance: Played a key role in planning for the National Library of India and overall library development.

Additional Information: S. R. Ranganathan's Legacy

Dr. Shiyali Ramamrita Ranganathan (1892-1972) was a mathematician and librarian. He is considered the pioneer of library science in India and an internationally renowned figure. His contributions include:

• Five Laws of Library Science (1931): These are fundamental principles guiding library operations and philosophy (Books are for use, Every reader his book, Every book its reader, Save the time of the reader, A library is a growing organism).
• Colon Classification (CC): A faceted classification system widely used in Indian libraries.
• He also played a crucial role in drafting library legislation in various Indian states.
• His chairmanship of committees like the National Central Library Committee highlights his influence on library policy and infrastructure in post-independence India.

Understanding the key figures and committees in the history of Indian libraries is important for anyone studying library and information science.