Got time? Head to the open library

ALAPPUZHA: A library without a librarian, set up in open area under a tree by the side of road, where passers-by peacefully read books and skim through newspapers has become a highlight of Kalolsavam. A group of girl students came up with the open library idea to promote reading habit among the public on the sidelines of the festival.

They are National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers of Govt Mohammaden’s GHSS in Alappuzha, one of the festival venues.

“The initiative is part of Akshara Deepam project by the education department to promote literacy. NSS is promoting open libraries across the state and Mohammaden’s GHSS is the first school to set up one in the region. We thought the library should be launched on fest day as more people will know about it,” said Thahaniya MS, a Class XII student.

Students themselves built a wooden shelf that houses around 60 books and newspapers which are accessible to everyone right outside their school. The books include novels, short stories, general knowledge books; both vernacular and English dailies are available too. The library timings are from 9am to 5pm and anyone can begin reading after entering their names in the register provided. Now, students are aiming to improve the infrastructure.