IUB library marks national library day with ai talk, student activities

The Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) library observed National Library Day 2026 on 5 February 2026, highlighting the role of libraries in access to knowledge, research literacy and responsible information use through speeches, a featured talk, student activities and recognition segments.

The event included a special talk titled "From search to discovery: how AI transforms research" by Ashraful Islam, director of the Center for Computational and Data Sciences (CCDS) at IUB. The talk focused on the use of artificial intelligence in research and information discovery.

A pop quiz competition was also held, coordinated by Md Mubassir Ahsan, assistant director (library information technology). Three winners received certificates and book vouchers. The day's activities began with a rally in the Bashundhara Residential Area, followed by reflections from the competition winners, organisers said.

IUB Vice-Chancellor M Tamim said, "National Library Day raises awareness of libraries, and IUB has one of the most comprehensive library systems among private universities in Bangladesh. I encourage students to make full use of these resources."

IUB Pro Vice-Chancellor Daniel W Lund said libraries are "places where knowledge is freedom, the foundation of the future", reflecting on early experiences of using community libraries in Canada.

In his welcome address, IUB Librarian Md Shahajada Masud Anowarul Haque said National Library Day highlights that libraries are not merely places where books are stored, but spaces where ideas grow and curiosity is nurtured. He also said IUB is an official member of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA).

The programme concluded with closing remarks by Deputy Librarian Khurshid Jahan, followed by a cake-cutting segment and lunch.