Islamabad: The National Assembly Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture on Tuesday expressed serious concern over the deteriorating condition of the National Library of Pakistan and directed the ministry concerned to take immediate administrative measures to improve its facilities, management and public services.

The meeting, chaired by Syeda Nousheen Iftikhar, MNA, reviewed the implementation status of its previous recommendations and was informed that substantial progress had been made in updating the Ministry's rules, regulations and legislative framework, while remaining proposals were under consideration.

During a detailed briefing on the National Library, committee members appreciated efforts to modernize library services through digitization despite financial constraints. However, they expressed dissatisfaction over poor maintenance, unhygienic conditions, inadequate internet connectivity, non-functional infrastructure and weak administrative oversight.

The Committee directed the Ministry to address these shortcomings on a priority basis and submit a comprehensive report at its next meeting covering visitor statistics, staffing, vacant posts, membership and internally generated revenue.

The Committee appreciated the National Library's role in preserving Pakistan's literary heritage through conservation of rare manuscripts, legal deposit functions, ISBN registration and digitization initiatives. It stressed the need to accelerate digitization of rare publications and improve public access to research and knowledge resources.

Members also received a presentation on the representation of Saraiki and South Punjab's cultural heritage at the National Heritage Museum. While appreciating the Museum's efforts to preserve Pakistan's diverse cultural identity, the Committee recommended organizing more cultural exhibitions, strengthening coordination among cultural institutions and providing greater opportunities for artisans, craftsmen and young people to promote traditional heritage.

The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) also briefed the Committee on its ongoing programmes in music, theatre, fine arts, cultural performances, workshops, exhibitions and youth development. The Committee appreciated PNCA's contribution to promoting arts and culture and emphasized expanding opportunities for emerging artists and increasing public participation in cultural activities.

The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Pakistan's cultural institutions, safeguarding the country's literary and cultural heritage and improving public access to educational and cultural resources through institutional reforms, effective governance and efficient resource management.