SLBC gets modern archives library

The new state-of-the-art archives library of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) was declared open yesterday by Mass Media, Information and Enterprise Development Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa yesterday.

The SLBC has increased its broadcasting capacity by installing six new transmitters in its Colombo premises.

This heightens the listening quality of the national radio. New digital archives has also been set up in order to conserve old and important tapes and records of the national radio. The SLBC archives is among the leading electronic media archives in the Asian region.

Minister Yapa said "the SLBC has a huge collection of our great artistes most of whom are not with us today.

"I thought it is our duty to preserve their works for future generations. Since 2001 I have been trying to find the technology and funds to protect these songs.

"With the cooperation of SLBC Chairman Hudson Samarasinghe, the Director Board and other officials and also the Ministry officials we were able to complete this task this year.

"We were in fear of losing the SLBC.

"We couldn't see progress in the last few years. There was a dearth of good programs. But the present Chairman has infused a new life together with his staff leading to a turn around.

"Today we can see a good relationship and cooperation between the Chairman, Board of Directors and members of the staff. SLBC Chairman Hudson Samarasinghe said he would do his utmost to develop the institution with the full backing of the Minister," he said.

Daily News Editor Jayatilleke de Silva, Dinamina Editor Mahinda Abeysundera and Silumina Editor Karunadasa Sooriyaarachchi were also present. The new transmission was switched on by Minister Yapa and Ministry Secretary Dissanayake.