In the small town of Handwara in North Kashmir, a 28-year-old university graduate has turned a dream into reality by opening the first 24/7 library. Rahat Qadir, originally from Handwara, has created a unique educational space aimed at providing better learning resources for the local students. The library, named The Chapter One Library, opened its doors in July 2023 and has quickly become a hub for students, professionals, and anyone seeking knowledge.
Rahat Qadir’s journey toward opening the library started years ago when he was a student at Chandigarh University. During his time studying outside Kashmir, he saw firsthand the challenges that students from smaller towns like Handwara faced when trying to access quality educational resources. Many students had to travel long distances, sometimes at great financial and emotional costs, just to find a good place to study.
Rahat realized that students in his hometown did not have access to the resources and study spaces that were available in larger cities. This gap in educational facilities deeply affected him and sparked his desire to bring those resources closer to home. The idea of setting up a library for students in Handwara began to take shape during his years at university, but it wasn’t until 2023 that Rahat decided to make it happen.
“I thought, why not bring a library that runs 24/7 right here in Handwara,” Rahat said, sharing the story of how his dream took form. “I saw how helpful libraries were in my academic journey, and I wanted to provide the same opportunity for others in my town.”
The concept of the library began four years ago when Rahat and his cousin first discussed the idea of opening a library in Handwara. At the time, they faced numerous challenges, especially due to Rahat’s college commitments. However, they did not give up on the dream. When Rahat returned home after completing his Master’s degree at the Central University of Kashmir, he revisited the idea and shared it with his family. His brother, Dr Firdous, who is posted at GMC Handwara, fully supported the project, and together they decided to take the necessary steps to bring the library to life.
After months of planning, effort, and hard work, The Chapter One Library was finally inaugurated on July 3rd, 2023. Located near the GMC Hospital in Handwara, the library quickly became a beloved place for local students and professionals.
From the moment it opened, The Chapter One Library received an overwhelming response from the community. The demand for study space was so high that within just a month, the library had to expand its seating capacity to accommodate up to 125 members. The library is now open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering a welcoming space for anyone who wants to study, work, or read.
“We wanted to create a space where students and professionals could feel comfortable, focused, and supported,” Rahat explained. “Having the library open 24/7 allows people to come whenever it fits their schedule, whether it’s day or night,” he said.
The library also provides a range of facilities designed to make studying more comfortable and accessible. It offers air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a reliable power backup system. There are separate restrooms for males and females, and during the cold winter months, the library is equipped with heaters, hot water, and mats to keep members warm and comfortable.
The library offers more than just a place to study. Rahat and his team are committed to meeting the diverse needs of the community. One of the library’s standout features is its book donation drive, which has been met with a positive response. Over 500 books have been donated, and Rahat is working towards establishing a fully stocked library by the end of the year.
“We want to ensure that students have access to a wide range of books, not just textbooks but also novels, reference books, and resources that can help them grow beyond their academic studies,” Rahat said.
To further support the mental well-being of students, the library also provides free counselling services. Rahat believes that emotional and psychological support is just as important as academic resources, especially for young people dealing with the stresses of education.
“We want our members to not only succeed academically but also thrive mentally and emotionally,” Rahat said. “The pressures of studies can be overwhelming, and we hope that our counseling services provide some relief.”
In addition to its educational services, The Chapter One Library also has a cafeteria, Yummzee, where one can enjoy food and drinks, including coffee, tea, and snacks, delivered directly to their seats. The library also offers services like printing to cater to the professional needs of students and other members.
Ensuring a safe and disciplined environment is a top priority at Chapter One Library. The library is equipped with CCTV surveillance to ensure the safety of all members. A dedicated librarian supervises the space and maintains a quiet and focused atmosphere.
The library also recognizes the importance of creating a comfortable and secure environment for everyone, including women. To address this, a dedicated section of seats is reserved exclusively for female members, ensuring they have a comfortable and secure place to study.
“We want everyone to feel safe and welcome here, regardless of their gender,” Rahat explained. “Providing a dedicated space for girls is part of our effort to make sure they feel comfortable and confident in their learning environment.”
For those who need to stay late into the night, the library offers options for dinner and even accommodation if needed. This flexible approach ensures that everyone can benefit from the library’s resources, no matter their schedule.
What started as a small idea has now grown into a thriving educational space in Handwara. Rahat and his team are committed to continuously improving the library to meet the evolving needs of their members. They aim to introduce at least one new feature or service regularly, ensuring that The Chapter One Library remains a dynamic and vital resource for the community.
“We want to make sure that Handwara’s students no longer need to travel to Srinagar or other cities to find quality study spaces,” Rahat said, Adding, “Our ultimate goal is to provide the best resources and facilities right here, so students can focus on their studies without any distractions or difficulties.”
“This library is not just a place to study; it’s a symbol of what’s possible when we work together to make our dreams come true,” Rahat said. “It’s about providing opportunities, supporting growth, and helping the next generation succeed,” he said.
