Maharashtra invites proposals for 2025-26 State Library Awards

The Maharashtra government's Directorate of Libraries has invited proposals for the 2025-26 State Library Awards. The awards aim to encourage qualitative development of recognised public libraries and promote reading culture across the state.

Eligible libraries, library movement activists and employees must submit three copies of their proposal in the prescribed format to the concerned District Library Officer by September 25. The awards include the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Best Library Award and the Dr S. R. Ranganathan Best Library Worker and Servant Award.

Outstanding government-recognised public libraries from urban and rural areas, classified under A, B, C and D categories, will be considered. Selected libraries will receive cash prizes of Rs 1 lakh, Rs 75,000, Rs 50,000 and Rs 25,000, along with a memento, certificate and a collection of books. Acting Director of Libraries Ashok Gadekar has urged eligible applicants to apply by the deadline.