Bridging Theory and Practice: Undergraduate Library Science Students Explore the PGIM Library

On 11th March 2025, a group of 36 first-year BA (Honours) undergraduates from the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, had the invaluable opportunity to visit the Postgraduate Institute of Medicine (PGIM) Library at the University of Colombo.

This insightful visit was organized under the guidance of Cadre Chair Snr. Prof. Weerasinghe, Dr. Priyanwada Wanigasooriya (Head of the Department of Library and Information Science), and Senior Lecturer Ms. Dilhani Munasinghe(sabbatical leave).Ms. Tharaka Sandapali and Ms. Oshani Jayamanna, Assistant Lecturers of the department, also participated in this visit. Their efforts provided students with an exceptional chance to explore the advanced resources, specialized services, and modern information management techniques employed in a prestigious postgraduate medical library.

A special note of appreciation goes to the dedicated staff of the PGIM Library for their warm hospitality and engaging session, which enriched students’ understanding of specialized library services. This experience played a significant role in broadening their perspective on the diverse functionalities of academic libraries.

A heartfelt acknowledgment is also extended to the Director of PGIM, Cadre Chair Senior Professor Senaka Rajapakse, Ms. Chandima Wadasinghe, Senior Assistant Librarian at PGIM, and the dedicated PGIM Library staff for their support and hospitality. Special appreciation goes to Ms. Dilhani Munasinghe, Senior Assistant Librarian at the PGIM Library, who is currently on sabbatical leave as a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya. While on sabbatical, she conducted a lecture on PGIM library services and resources, playing a pivotal role in bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical exposure for future Library and Information Science professionals.