Preserve Gopalganj’s historic library

We are disappointed to learn that the century-old Nazrul Public Library in Gopalganj has been displaced, and its historic building is now being used as a government officers’ club. The district administration reportedly shut the library down in 2024 due to financial constraints and a lack of activities. Although they moved around 12,500 books to a government facility in October 2025, promising to resume operations there, the library has yet to reopen. Should a library with such a long history be allowed to disappear because of administrative neglect? And why was its historic building turned into an officers’ club in the first place?

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Established in 1920 as the Coronation Club Library, the institution was moved to its own building and renamed Nazrul Public Library in 1968. The then government provided a grant to set it up, while local people also raised funds for two consecutive years. Over the decades, it became a hub for book lovers and local cultural personalities. GM Moinuddin, a teacher at Gopalganj SM Model Government High School, took up the job of its librarian in 1962 and served voluntarily for over 57 years. His efforts enriched the library with many rare books from home and abroad. But after he retired, the situation changed. Three librarians were reportedly appointed later, but they left after the authorities failed to pay their salaries. Sadly, instead of addressing these financial problems, the authorities eventually shut the library down. Now, its books remain inaccessible to readers at the new location. Many other libraries across the country have also become dysfunctional or suffered from poor maintenance.

Such neglect is unacceptable. Libraries provide free and inclusive spaces for people to read, learn and exchange ideas. A well-run public library can help develop reading habits among young people while encouraging critical thinking and open-mindedness. We urge the authorities to act urgently to reopen Nazrul Public Library. If the new location is to be permanent, it must have adequate space, proper facilities, regular funding, and qualified, well-paid staff. Also, the authorities should not use the historic library building for another purpose without consulting the library management committee and local community. The library has served generations of readers and should not be sacrificed for administrative convenience.