Washington, Jan 16: Montgomery County has agreed to include books on Sikhism in its public libraries.

This has been made possible because of the tireless efforts of Joginder Singh, a well-known philanthropist, and Guru Gobind Singh Foundation (GGSF).

The GGSF recently presented Montgomery County Department of Public Libraries Director Parker Hamilton and New Germantown library Agency Manager Maria Padak Kari a plaque for "Excellence in Community Service".

Montgomery County Library system is the 10th best in the United States.

Observing that Montgomery County has a substantial number of Sikhs, Hamilton said the county in future would have felt the need to have books in the native language for the Sikhs.

Hamilton appreciated the efforts of the GGSF for taking the lead in introducing books on Sikhs in Montgomery County, the largest county in Maryland and covering a
497-square mile area of suburbs to the north and northwest of Washington.

"American community at large has a lot to learn about the Sikhs and libraries provide the best medium for imparting the information," said Kari.

GGSF Secretary Amrit Kaur said the books on Sikhism provided to the libraries would be in English and Punjabi. Initially, three copies of ten books on art, philosophy, history and general understanding will be given.

GGSF Executive Director Dr. Rajwant Singh said: "Although Sikhs are present in the US for over 100 years, yet not much is available about them to public."

"This project will certainly ensure more education about Sikhs among other communities. It will also deter any prejudice arising from ignorance about Sikh traditions and rituals," Dr. Singh added. (ANI)