State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit inaugurated the three-day book fair in Jessore on Friday.Photo: BSS

JESSHORE, May 22, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit today announced the modernization of the nearly 200-year-old Jesshore Institute Public Library and the launch of its digital version.

"The government would ensure that readers from any part of the world could access books from the rich collection of the traditional Jesshore Public Library digitally, especially those who do not have the opportunity to visit the library in person in this age of technology," he said.

The state minister made the announcement while addressing the inaugural ceremony of a three-day book fair held on the library premises.

District administration in collaboration with the Jesshore Institute Public Library has organized the event.

Recalling his childhood memories, the state minister said the Jesshore Institute Public Library once enjoyed nationwide reputation and heritage, which had faded somewhat for various reasons.

Urging students to build regular reading habit, he said, "Reading books is a prerequisite for good writing and intellectual development and it enhances language skills and enriches vocabulary."

He also expressed determination to renovate the historic B Sarkar Memorial Hall, revolving theatre stage and the district Shilpakala Academy to revive Jesshore's cultural heritage of the district.

Jesshore Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Ashiq Hasan presided over the inaugural function.

District Council Chairman Delwar Hossain Khokon, Superintendent of Police Syed Rafiqul Islam were present at the event, among others.