Kerala - Kochi   

Popularising reading habit

Reading is definitely not on the decline if one were to go by the functioning of the Grameena Vayanasala at Iringallur on the outskirts of the Kozhikode Corporation near Pokkunnu.

The library is an example of how initiative and enterprise of local people can do wonders in popularising reading habit among the general public.

It has been a boon in the region, for those in search of books, and updating knowledge.

Set up in 1956, the Vayanasala functioned for 30 years on the upper floor of a teashop because of the magnanimity of the owner, who did not charge any rent.

On September 8, the year-long Golden Jubilee celebrations of the library which was accorded `A' grade by the Kerala State Library Council, was inaugurated by Industries Minister Elamaram Kareem.

Now the rural library boasts of more than 8,500 titles, including reference books many of which came as donations, and more than 300 members.

It has its own building, and furniture and other facilities donated by well-wishers.

The organisers also ensured that the Grameenasala was affiliated to the Kerala Granthasala Sanghom since its inception, and hence could get the annual Government grant and librarian's allowance.

Maleeha Raghaviah

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