Sambalpur, June 4: The public library at Badbazaar near Samaleswari Temple, which has been drawing large number of readers for the last five decades, is lying in a shambles apparently due to the indifferent attitude of the civic body.

The library, which was set up in 1962, has a commendable collection of books on all subjects. It was also being assisted by the Raja Rammohan Roy Library Foundation and was a hub of various cultural activities for the local residents.

But, local residents alleged the library had lost its sheen due to the continuous neglect meted out to it by the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation. The asbestos roof of the hall is lying broken and water is seeping into the building, damaging many rare books. There is no qualified librarian, and a Class-IV employee takes care of the library.

"Last year, a branch of a tree fell on the roof of the library and damaged the building. The roof has not been repaired since then. The civic body has been apprised about the pathetic condition of the library, yet no steps are being taken to repair it," said Pramod Saraf, an ex- councillor of the town.

"The students of our locality used to frequent the library in search of books. The library was of a great help to them. The civic body should immediately repair the roof of the library and appoint a librarian as well. The residents of our locality will gain if the library is restored," said Santanu Barik, a local resident.

When contacted, deputy municipal commissioner Sudhansu Bhoi, said: "The matter has come to our notice. We have sent a proposal to the engineering section of the civic body for the immediate repairing of the roof."