Massage of the librarian

In conjunction with the 60th anniversary of the University of Kelaniya, it is my privilege as the university librarian to contribute to the building of the university library museum and art gallery based on the historical and current records of the university. This museum is very attractive and impressive. It reflects the nationalism, indomitable courage, honesty and social justice that was apparent in the revolution from Vidyalankara Pirivena to the University of Kelaniya.

The purpose of setting up the museum in the library is to reflect the history of the journey from Vidyalankara Pirivena to the University of Kelaniya and to showcase the legacy that we have received from Vidyalinkara. Thus, the rare books, manuscripts, pearl collections, coins, ola leaf collections, historical stamps, special thripitaka collections etc., are exhibited as historical items that a library museum should have. The museum also evaluates the immense contributions of Vidyalankara Pirivena to the development of the University of Kelaniya and showcases the inextricable link between Pirivena and the University for the knowledge of the students and staff of the university as well as the general public. Based on all the remarkable contributions of the Vidyalanka Movement to the development of the current University of Kelaniya, this museum has been named as Most Reverend Natthandiye Pragnakara Nahimi Memorial Museum.

We all sincerely hope that the University of Kelaniya, which made a unique and revolutionary change in the history of education in Sri Lanka as well as in society, will shine more through this library Museum.