Digital revolution may have pushed libraries to the fringes, but the role of libraries community development remains intact. So, here is how you can help your local library not only survive, but also thrive.

Donate

Become a patron of your neighbourhood library by financially supporting it. The Directorate of Public Libraries has a donation programme where an individual can contribute ₹1,000 for the welfare of a branch library. The patron receives a certificate from the government in recognition of the support. You could also donate old or new books as many branch libraries are in need of new reading material. Talk to your librarian to find out other ways to donate.

Volunteer

If you are unable to support your library financially, you can always donate your time. There are many ways you can volunteer: Help the library staff organise the book shelves and in other areas of maintenance, conduct free reading sessions, form a book club and organise and plan meet-ups and other interesting activities.

Want a library in your neighbourhood?

If your neighbourhood lacks a public library and you would like your local body to set up one, these are the steps to be taken.

Before that, we are assuming that certain criteria laid down by the Directorate of Public Libraries, Tamil Nadu Government, including the minimum required population in the geographical area in question, are met.

Here are those steps, as laid down by the Directorate of Public Libraries.

A rent-free building should be handed over to the Local Library Authority (LLA) concerned.

Land measuring 5 cents for the construction of a library building should be registered in the names of the LLA.”

Two library patrons should be enrolled with a payment of ₹1,000 each.

200 members should be enrolled with a caution deposit of ₹20 and annual subscription of ₹10 from each member.”

Furniture for the value of ₹2,000 should be handed over as donation.

SOURCE: DIRECTORATE OF PUBLIC LIBRARIES