Orissa: After Covid lull, public libraries attempt to revive reading habit

BHUBANESWAR: Public libraries in the city, which had become dormant due to the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns, are once again seeing the return of bibliophiles as the situation has normalised.
Harekrushna Mahtab State Library has opened its door not only for registered members but also for non-members.
A new space has been set up on the premises dedicated to students who do not have a space to study. They can bring their own books to study and discuss with the other students there. The library is planning to organize book conferences to encourage readers to read not only textbooks but also other literature. After the reopening, mostly students, teachers, professors and writers are visiting the library. Readers are mostly preferring books on current affairs, competitive exams and literature.
“I have been visiting the library for the last two months. I’m currently preparing for the Staff Selection Commission and bank entrance exams, so I read related books,” said Sunny Kumar Behera, a science graduate.
At Bakul Library, where a significant number of books had been damaged due to termite infestation during the lockdown, initiatives like the Young Adult Book Club, nukkad natak (street theatre) and a cafe are helping it get back to its feet. School and college students have joined the library as volunteers.
Surrounded by a residential society, Bakul Library attracts parents, children and university students. Genres like comics, young adult, biographies, short stories, poems, mystery and thriller are mostly preferred by the readers.
“I had initially joined the book club but after a while, I got to know that the library provides volunteering opportunities. Since then, I have become an active member,” said Rahul Agrawal, a school student. “I love reading mythology, thriller or suspense novels,” he added.
On the other hand, Pragnyat Library is welcoming competitive exam aspirants. Along with the reading room facilities, the library also provides personal lockers and internet connection.
Students can get textbooks on medicine, civil services, railways, chartered accountant, bank entrance exams and many more. It aims to help underprivileged students to study.
“The environment at the library helps me focus on my studies. With such an affordable subscription, we also get Wi-Fi service to browse different resources online,” said Rakesh Kumar, an aspiring banker.