Published Paper Details:

The current study was undertaken to assess and evaluate feasibility and existing infrastructure of libraries in the government secondary schools across the region of Ladakh UT. The study was focused both on Leh and Kargil districts. A comprehensive survey was conducted involving a total of 750 participants, comprising 650 students and 100 teachers from 16 government secondary schools. Same number of schools were taken i.e., 8 each from Leh and Kargil to study the whole region. The participants represented a mix of genders, diverse age ranges, and various academic backgrounds, including different student subjects and class levels, ensuring a randomized and inclusive dataset. Of the total respondents, 430 participants (57.3%) were from Leh and 320 (42.7%) from Kargil, reflecting a fairly balanced geographical representation. The finding during this study reveals a critical infrastructural gap, which shows none of the surveyed schools possess a dedicated library building for the students or staff. Instead, all existing libraries operate out of repurposed rooms within the main school structures. This lack of designated space significantly compromises the quality of library services and undermines the students' ability to access a quiet and focused study environment. The study serves as a crucial step towards addressing educational disparities in Ladakh and these results highlight an urgent need for policy-level interventions and infrastructural investment to strengthen educational support systems in the region.