Thanks to Dr. Umeshareddy Kacherki, Librarian and Head, JRD Tata Memorial Library, Indian Institute of Science in India, for taking part in our Librarian Spotlight interview series.

“For me, librarianship is far more than managing information. It is about connecting people with knowledge, enabling discoveries, fostering collaboration, and supporting lifelong learning. ” 

1. What made you decide to become a librarian?

To be honest, librarianship was never part of my original career plan. Until I completed my graduation in science, I was determined to pursue Botany. Having secured admission to both programmes and trusting the advice of senior professor, I chose MLISc. A decision that set me on an unexpected career path, one that has proved both fulfilling and rewarding.

• What’s the best thing about being a librarian?

The best thing about being a librarian is the opportunity to interact with brilliant researchers, faculty, and students working across diverse disciplines, making the work intellectually stimulating and deeply rewarding. For me, librarianship is far more than managing information. It is about connecting people with knowledge, enabling discoveries, fostering collaboration, and supporting lifelong learning. There is a unique satisfaction in knowing that, in some small but way, the library contributes to the research and innovation that take place every day at IISc.

• Tell us about your favourite book?

If I had to choose one book that has stayed with me over the years, it would be ‘The story of my experiments with truth’ by Mahatma Gandhi. What makes this book special is its honesty. Rather than presenting himself as a flawless leader, Gandhi openly writes about his mistakes, doubts, fears, and the lessons he learned from them. This humility makes the book deeply relatable and inspiring. It reminds me that personal and professional growth comes through self-examination and a willingness to learn from one’s experiences. As a librarian and lifelong learner, I find Gandhi’s approach to treating life as a series of experiments particularly meaningful. 

• In your opinion, what are the most important skills to have when working as a librarian?

I believe the most important skills for a librarian are adaptability, a strong service mindset, and integrity. Adaptability is essential to keep pace with the rapidly evolving information landscape and emerging technologies. A service-oriented approach enables librarians to understand and respond effectively to the changing needs of their user community. Above all, integrity is the foundation of the profession, fostering trust and building meaningful relationships with researchers, faculty, and students.

• What’s your favourite place in your library?

My favourite places in the library are the reception counter and the collaborative learning space, as both represent the essence of a modern library. The reception counter holds a special place for me because it is where the library’s connection with its users begins. It is the first point of interaction where students, researchers, and faculty seek guidance, ask questions, and discover the various resources and services available to them. It symbolizes the transformation of libraries from traditional repositories of information into dynamic environments that foster interaction, creativity, and knowledge sharing. 

• In your opinion, what is the importance of the library?

In my opinion, the library is the heart of any learning and research community. Its importance lies not only in providing access to information but also in creating an environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge.

• Tell us about your chill-out area/library nook in your library (if you have one)?

Although my library does not have a designated chill-out area, my favourite pause is standing by the office window with a cup of green tea while enjoying the lush green campus of IISc. Those quiet moments offer a refreshing break, helping me reconnect with nature, reflect, and recharge. 

• Is there anything you would like to share with other librarians?

Treat every user with equal attention, respect, and priority. Regardless of their role or position, every individual should receive the same level of care, professionalism, and commitment. This inclusive approach fosters trust, strengthens the bond between the library and reflects the true spirit of librarianship as a service-oriented profession.

• Could you tell us the most interesting/funniest story that happened to you working as a librarian?

One student I remember particularly well was a regular visitor to the library. He would spend hours studying, then take a brisk walk around the library to refresh his mind before returning to his desk for another focused study session. His dedication and consistency always stood out to me. Years later, I was delighted to learn that he had become a faculty member at a university in the United States, where he is now engaged in cutting-edge interdisciplinary research. It was inspiring to see how his perseverance had contributed to his academic success, and it remains one of the most interesting stories from my time in the library.

1. What is your favourite part of the day at work?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role as a librarian at IISc is providing scholarly publishing support to the research community. It gives me the opportunity to engage closely with researchers, understand their work, and appreciate the aspirations that drive their pursuit of knowledge. Being part of IISc’s highly dynamic, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating research environment makes these interactions particularly enriching. It allows me to contribute meaningfully to the research ecosystem by supporting researchers in communicating and disseminating their work effectively.

1. If you had to describe a library in one word, what would it be?

Inclusivity

1. What is the most valuable piece of advice you would give to someone just beginning their career as a librarian?

Apart from professional knowledge and technical skills, patience and passion are essential qualities for success in librarianship. Together, patience and passion bring the human element to librarianship. They enable librarians to serve with empathy, embrace change, and remain committed to the larger mission of empowering learning, research, and discovery.