Role of Community Libraries in Cultural Preservation in Kaski, Nepal

Abstract

Community libraries in Kaski, Nepal, play a pivotal role in preserving and promoting local cultural heritage through various mechanisms including digitization, documentation, and community engagement. This study examines the multifaceted contributions of community libraries to cultural preservation in the Kaski district, utilizing a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with library personnel and quantitative analysis of library resources and programs. The research reveals that community libraries serve as crucial cultural repositories, maintaining traditional manuscripts, oral histories, and cultural artifacts while adapting to modern digital preservation techniques. Key findings indicate that these libraries facilitate intergenerational knowledge transfer, support local language preservation, and create platforms for cultural expression and education. The study demonstrates that community libraries in Kaski have successfully integrated traditional preservation methods with contemporary digital technologies, resulting in enhanced accessibility and sustainability of cultural resources. The research contributes to understanding the evolving role of community libraries in cultural preservation within developing nations, particularly in mountainous regions with rich cultural diversity. The findings suggest that community libraries represent essential infrastructure for maintaining cultural identity and continuity in rapidly changing socio-economic environments.