IIT Bhubaneswar Empowers Library Professionals with Five-Day Open-Source Automation Training
Hands-on programme on Koha and WordPress strengthens digital library management skills
Bhubaneswar, June 13, 2026: The Central Library of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar successfully organized a five-day training programme on “Library Automation Using Koha and Library Website Development Using WordPress” under its Open-Source Library Management Systems (OSLMS) 2026 initiative. The programme aimed to enhance the technical capabilities of Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals through practical exposure to open-source technologies.
The inaugural session featured Dr. Akshay Kumar Rath, who emphasized the transformation of libraries from traditional repositories into digitally enabled knowledge centres. Dr. Naresh Chandra Sahu, Chairperson In-Charge of the Central Library, welcomed participants from across the country and highlighted the importance of continuous professional development in the digital era.
Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Bibhuti Bhusan Sahoo, Deputy Librarian and Coordinator of OSLMS-2026, explained that the programme was designed to provide hands-on training in modern library automation tools and strengthen the digital competencies of library professionals.
Throughout the five-day programme, participants received intensive practical training on Koha, the widely used open-source Integrated Library Management System, and WordPress for developing and managing library websites. Sessions also covered digital resource management and innovative library services using open-source platforms.
Addressing the valedictory session as the Chief Guest, Prof. Subhransu Ranjan Samantaray, Dean (Postgraduate & Research Programs), IIT Bhubaneswar, stressed that effective knowledge dissemination is fundamental to academic excellence. He noted that digital library systems play a crucial role in expanding access to information and encouraged participants to leverage technology to drive innovation in library services.
Dr. Satya Ranjan Sahu, Senior Principal Scientist and Head of the Knowledge Resource Centre at CSIR–Institute of Minerals & Materials Technology (IMMT), Bhubaneswar, spoke on the evolution of Koha and the transformative impact of library automation in improving operational efficiency, digitization, and knowledge management. He also underscored the need for continuous learning and technological upskilling among library professionals.
The technical sessions were conducted by Dr. Sambhunath Sahoo, Assistant Librarian, and Mr. Praveen Kumar R, Web Developer, who served as resource persons and provided hands-on demonstrations.
The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates to participants, offering a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, skill enhancement, and the adoption of innovative open-source solutions for modern library management.
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