A New Chapter

Now,most students flock to these libraries to avail the facilities. “If there’s a book that we don’t have,a child places a request for it and we get it the next day,’’ promises Anju Gupta,the librarian,who strongly opposes the notion that State libraries are dingy. “These libraries cater to as many as 4,000 children members. And virtually free of charge,with only Rs 130 as a one-time fee,with complimentary creative workshops,story-telling sessions,art and craft activities,’’ adds Gupta. Agrees Kulbir Kaur,incharge of the childrens’ section,“We also have board games and computers to keep children coming in. In fact,we have children lining up at the gate before 10 am.”

The dark,dusty and dilapidated look associated with public libraries has been replaced with hi-tech equipment,a friendly staff open to ideas and suggestions. After more than 50 years,the Central State Library in Sector-17 will wear a new look. Work is on full swing to give members a new experience. Parveen Khurana,the director at Sector-17 library,is upbeat about the renovation,especially at the children’s section,which is being done by an interior decorator. “We’re almost through and will be ready to open doors soon to a place that’s child-friendly,attractive,’’ he explains. The changes already in place include special lighting,a play area,new computer zone,more computers,additions to the DVD and CD collection,an addition to the 25,000 book titles for children up to the age of 16. The one-time membership,too,is Rs 130. “Internet usage for 30-minutes daily is free,plus regular creative workshops. That’s why we have 8,000 members in the children’s section alone,” he adds. The Amercian Corner here will see an upgrade,with Khurana promising a Kindle and iPods.

There’s an endearing old-world charm at the Lala Lajpat Rai Bhavan’s children’s corner,the Raj Rishi Tandon Bal Pustakalaya. Quiet and quaint,the library that came from Lahore,brought with it some rare books and stories. Open to children between 6 and 16,there are 200 members here who have a lot to choose from. The place has been recently upgraded,with computers,board games,courtesy some members. “Our childrens’ magazine and comics corner is a huge hit and we have the latest in fiction,’’ smiles Kulvinder Kaur,who agrees that the annual membership fee of Rs 100 is a big attraction.