Archaeology Dept. collaborates with Servants of Knowledge to digitise heritage collections

The project aims to safeguard the historical materials and making the knowledge accessible to citizens, researchers, and students across India and globally. | Photo Credit: Special arrangement The Department of Archaeology, Museums & Heritage, Government of Karnataka, and the Anubhava Mantapa Servants of Knowledge Association (Servants of Knowledge) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to digitise the department’s library in Mysuru. Under the agreement, Servants of Knowledge (SoK) will undertake the digitisation of approximately 18,000 rare books and 1,000 archival publications housed within the library. The project aims to safeguard the historical materials and making the knowledge accessible to citizens, researchers, and students across India and globally. “Our mission is to build a grassroots digital public library, and this collaboration allows us to bring thousands of rare volumes into the digital age, ensuring that the rich history of Karnataka is preserved for future generations,” said Omshivaprakash H.L., CEO of Servants of Knowledge. Servants of Knowledge will provide the equipment, personnel, and expertise required to scan and digitise the selected library collections, ensuring adherence to archival standards. Digitised materials will be made available through digital archives, providing broad public access with appropriate attribution to the Department of Archaeology, Museums & Heritage and the Government of Karnataka. “The project ensures the safe handling of all original materials, maintaining their integrity while expanding their utility for modern educational and research needs,” said a statement from Servants of Knowledge. The initiative will be facilitated at the Karnataka Exhibition Authority premises in Mysuru. The MoU is valid for an initial period of one year. A not-for-profit organisation which strives to create free, universal access to public data and historical knowledge, Servants of Knowledge recently also partnered with Karnataka Sahitya Academy to digitize Panchama, a pioneering Kannada periodical of the Dalit movement in the State. Published - July 18, 2026 10:49 pm IST