In an era dominated by technology , where social networking sites often overshadow genuine social interactions, Public Libraries continue to play an important role in preserving reading habits.
There are as many as 139 Public Libraries across different areas of Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory, the first one set up way back in 1879 in Jammu.
These cherished institutions continue to provide free access to a world of books, drawing students and avid readers from different areas, mostly from remote villages and low-income families.
In Southern district of Pulwama, there are four Public Libraries under Department of Libraries and Research which include District Library Pulwama, Tehsil Library Pampore, Tehsil Library Tral and Block Library Awantipora.
District Library is a two -storey spacious building near Government Boys Higher Secondary School at Chatapora locality of Pulwama.
This Library serves as a beacon of hope for book lovers as it is one among the district libraries across Kashmir having a significant number of borrowers who visit here routinely.
Jamsheed Ahmad, a student at a Government School in Pulwama, recently acquired membership at this Library.
He expressed his outrage against the lack of facilities at his school library, saying, “I have been trying to borrow a book from my school library for three months now, but every time I return empty-handed. The school librarian tells me that some formalities are pending, and until they are completed, I can’t borrow a book.”
Jamsheed’s situation is not uncommon, as many students face similar challenges.
He continued, “I don’t have internet access, and I don’t even own a mobile phone. I love reading, but I can’t afford to buy books due to my family’s limited income. A friend told me about this library, and I was thrilled to learn about it. The library offers spacious reading rooms, a peaceful environment, and a vast collection of books.”
A Sanctuary for Knowledge Seekers: The library’s appeal extends beyond students to people of all ages. A 90 year-old man was seen perusing bookshelves in the Kashmiri section with the assistance of a library employee.
He expressed his joy at discovering a collection of poetry by the Kashmiri saint, Sheikh Noor-u-Din Noorani (RA).
“I love reading Kashmiri and Persian books on poetry, history, and philosophy,” the old man said, “I was looking for a book by Prakash Ram, Prammanad Mattan, but couldn’t find it. I am a farmer, but I have been an ardent book lover since my early years.”
The aged man continued that for him books are invaluable treasures that expand a person’s perspective and help shape one’s personality.
“Unfortunately, our younger generation seems to be forsaking the habit of reading books, as they appear captivated by glamorous media,” he said.
Nurturing Love for Reading : To instill a passion for reading among the younger generation, the library has established a dedicated children’s section, attracting many young readers.
Burhaan Ahmad, a grade three student , excitedly shared his motivation for becoming a library member.
“My friend was reading an English fairy tale, and he told me he borrowed it from the district library. I also want to read English tales, so I obtained membership today,” Burhaan said with enthusiasm.
A Hub of Knowledge: The District Public Library in Pulwama boasts an impressive array of resources to cater to diverse interests. It comprises six sections which include:
General Section: Offering a wide range of subjects.
Reference Section: Providing in-depth resources for research and study.
Raja Ram Mohan Roy Section: Honouring the social reformer and his works
Children’s Section: Designed to nurture young readers
Kashmiri and Urdu Section: Celebrating regional literature.
Islamic and Comparative Religion Section: For the spiritually inclined.
The library houses more than 23,000 titles spanning religion, history, economics, science, journalism, literature, biographies, and autobiographies, agriculture, medicine and many others.
Besides, it has a separate section for various competitive examinations like KAS and IAS.
Some reading material is available in digital formats also.
G M Dar, a prominent civil society member, said that the computer section of the Library has video lectures by eminent scholars of the country for various competitive examinations which are helpful for aspirants to stay motivated and focused.
However, he suggested some additions to popularize reading at such public institutions in a more attractive and meaningful manner.
