Transforming rural community libraries into learning havens for children
In rural Karnataka, Kalike, an implementation partner of Tata Trusts, is breathing new life into community libraries to enrich the learning experience of children
Until recently, rural community libraries in Karnataka were shadows of their intended selves. Despite the establishment of 5,623 libraries under the Karnataka Public Libraries Act of 1965, the ground reality was disheartening. These libraries faced numerous challenges — they were not fully functional, lacked relevant children's books, and operated without trained librarians. Many of these libraries were either shut or simply inaccessible to children. Moreover, there was a prevailing notion that these spaces catered only to adults. Thus, the potential of these libraries, particularly for children in remote corners, remained largely untapped.
Kalike, an associate organisation of the Tata Trusts, seized an opportunity for a field pilot demonstration in Yadgir, aiming to create child-friendly community libraries accessible to children after school hours, reaching even those in the remotest areas.
Crafting child-friendly spaces
The first step of this transformative journey involved identifying the gaps in 40 Gram Panchayat libraries, laying the foundation for exclusive children's sections within these community libraries. Walls came alive with vibrant art, creating an atmosphere conducive to learning. The arrangement of the library sections also underwent a modern makeover.
Drawing inspiration from successful school library programmes, Kalike's strategy didn't just stop at physical enhancements. The organisation embarked on a mission to train 228 Gram Panchayat librarians, ensuring that they were well-equipped to conduct engaging activities for children at the libraries. A diverse collection of age-appropriate books also found its way into these rural libraries, breaking the common perception that these spaces were solely intended for adults.
Scaling the impact
What began as a pilot demonstration in Yadgir, covering 20 child-friendly Gram Panchayat libraries, has now grown impressively in scale. Within just seven months, 200 Gram Panchayat Libraries have been transformed into havens for young readers, with 40 intensive and 160 extensive libraries equipped with appropriate children's books. The impact, however, echoes beyond mere statistics. Over 11,000 government school children have reaped the benefits of these community libraries, developing lifelong reading habits and showcasing their creative skills through various activities.
A brighter future awaits
Building on Kalike's efforts towards reviving libraries in Yadgir — an initiative that was supported by the Tata Trusts over several years — UNICEF recently threw its weight behind the initiative with a substantial funding.
The success achieved through the field pilot and its subsequent expansion to 200 libraries, presents an opportunity for replication on an even larger canvas. As the story unfolds, Kalike's journey stands as a beacon of hope, lighting the path for a brighter, more literate future in the heartlands of Karnataka.
