Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan. 19: Under the Directorate of Education, there are 2 District Libraries and 18 Zonal Libraries functioning across the A&N Islands. The Director (Education) has emphasized transforming libraries into Centres for the overall development of students, while also promoting reading habits among the general public.
Several initiatives have been undertaken to improve library facilities, and the positive response from readers has resulted in remarkable improvement. Key initiatives include:
•A large number of children’s books have been added to the library collections, leading to increased student participation, particularly during evening hours and holidays. To further encourage engagement, chocolates were distributed to students, motivating them to spend more time in the library.
• Separate Art & Craft corners along with chess corners have been created, enabling students to spend more time in libraries and reducing mobile phone dependency.
• Children’s motivational movies are being screened every Sunday evening, attracting a large number of students to the libraries. The District Library, Car Nicobar witnessed more students during screening.
• Large display boards have been installed highlighting the facilities available at each District and Zonal Library.
• Regular competitions such as Art & Craft, Reading, and Storytelling have been initiated to encourage creativity and confidence among students.
• Libraries will remain open on Sundays, with Monday as the weekly off. The working hours will be 11 AM to 7 PM.
These initiatives have significantly strengthened the role of libraries as vibrant learning spaces for students and the community. District and Zonal Libraries are being developed as Centres of learning, and parents are encouraged to bring their children to the libraries so that they may spend more time in positive and constructive activities.