USM Vice Chancellor, Prof. Tan Sri Dato’ Dzulkifli Abdul Razak said, the uniqueness of the library will stem from the fact that it can channel and provide information that cannot be obtained elsewhere. Therefore, he said that it should function as a special referral centre, especially in providing knowledge that can be obtained exclusively at PHS, thereby making it unique and an example to others.
“This includes our ability to store exclusive printed or electronic materials in an effort to be different and unique compared to other libraries in the country,” he said.
He said this at a media conference after launching the new RM13 million PHS building that was completed last year. Also present were Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Asma Ismail and Chief Librarian, Mohd. Pisol Ghadzali.
Dzulkifli also hoped that the new building, equipped with Wifi access and a conducive environment, complete with various reference materials would be a landmark, symbolising excellence in education.
“To keep pace with the advances in technology, we have provided facilities for electronic reference and so far, PHS USM has a collection of printed and electronic reference materials totalling 2.5 million,” he said.
He added that librarians also have a role to play in dealing with information on the internet. Thus they need to equip themselves with the requisite cyber skills in order to guide students and academic staff to obtain accurate and exact information.
“PHS has also subscribed to 119 databases and electronic books in various fields and this can enhance the quality of service provided to users, especially USM researchers who are conducting research that can benefit society,” he explained.
Since its establishment in 1969, PHS has been the driver of USM efforts to maintain its excellence as a storehouse of knowledge as well as to consolidate and enhance its collection of reference materials.
The addition of a new block, amongst others, is aimed at supporting the increased demand for reference materials. Besides this, the new block will act as a referral centre, especially for postgraduate students seeking reference materials for their research.
At the same event, USM forged a smart partnership with Senstech Sdn. Bhd to develop collaboration in the field of research, training, expertise and consultation to fully develop locally- made RFID applications.
During the event, a digital CD on important archaeological discoveries made in Sungai Batu, Kedah by USM archaeologists and which have created history, was launched.
