Maharaj Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III of Baroda was a visionary ruler who played a pivotal role in the development of public libraries in India. His efforts are considered foundational to the modern Indian library system. Let's evaluate each statement provided regarding his contributions.

Analyzing Statements on Maharaj Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III

• Statement A: He is regarded as Apostle of Indian Library Movement.
  This statement is widely considered true. Maharaj Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III is often hailed as the 'Father' or 'Apostle' of the Indian Library Movement due to his pioneering work in establishing a comprehensive and free public library system throughout his state of Baroda in the early 20th century.
• Statement B: He invited WA Borden for organizing the library system in his state.
  This statement is true. Recognizing the need for professional expertise, Maharaj Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III invited Mr. William Alanson Borden, an American librarian and student of Melvil Dewey, in 1910 to organize and manage the Baroda library system. Borden's contributions were crucial in setting up modern library practices and training local librarians.
• Statement C: He is one of the founding members of the Indian Library Association.
  This statement is false. The Indian Library Association (ILA) was founded in 1933. While Maharaj Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III was a major inspiration and precursor to such national movements, he was not among the individuals who formally founded the association in 1933. Key founding members included figures like Dr. S. R. Ranganathan and others.
• Statement D: He was instrumental in opening the National Library of India.
  This statement is false. The National Library of India in Kolkata evolved from earlier institutions like the Calcutta Public Library (established 1836) and the Imperial Library (formed in 1903 by merging several libraries). While Maharaj Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III's work contributed to the overall library landscape in India, he was not directly instrumental in the establishment or opening of the National Library of India.
• Statement E: He played a vital role in providing matching grants to start the village library.
  This statement is true. A key feature of the Baroda library system established by Maharaj Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III was the implementation of a matching grant scheme. He provided financial assistance to villages willing to start libraries, often matching local contributions, which greatly encouraged community participation and the spread of libraries to rural areas.

Summary of Statement Analysis

Based on the analysis, statements A, B, and E are true regarding Maharaj Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III's contributions to the Indian Library Movement.

Revision Table: Key Figures in Indian Library Movement

Additional Information: Baroda Library System

The library system established by Maharaj Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III in the state of Baroda (now in Gujarat) is considered a landmark achievement in the history of libraries in India. Key features included:

• It was a free public library system accessible to all citizens, regardless of caste or creed.
• A hierarchical structure was created, with a Central Library in Baroda city, supported by district libraries, town libraries, and numerous village libraries.
• Mobile library services (Library on Wheels) were introduced to reach remote areas.
• A strong emphasis was placed on professional training for librarians.
• Matching grants encouraged local communities to take ownership of their libraries.
• Efforts were made to translate and publish books in local languages to promote literacy and reading.

This comprehensive and well-organized system served as a model for library development in other parts of India.