Private Libraries, Reading Rooms Gaining Patronage in Visakhapatnam

 Visakhapatnam: Private libraries and reading rooms are witnessing growing patronage in Visakhapatnam, particularly among students preparing for competitive examinations.

Equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, ergonomic seating, and extended working hours, these facilities have emerged as preferred study spaces for aspirants preparing for examinations such as UPSC, SSC, NEET and IIT-JEE.

Libraries, such as Visakha Public Library and Book Magic Library, have built a steady clientele by offering exam-oriented study material, mock tests, and digital resources. Visakha Public Library caters largely to those writing competitive examinations. Book Magic Library focuses on inculcating reading habits among children through storybooks and illustrated literature.

Government libraries too are playing an important public role despite infrastructure and funding constraints. The district has one central library, five Grade-I libraries, seven Grade-II libraries, 51 Grade-III libraries, three rural libraries and 57 book deposit centres, with a combined collection of more than 5.42 lakh books.

Officials acknowledge that many of these institutions face challenges, such as ageing infrastructure, limited digital facilities, and fixed working hours. These undermined their appeal among younger readers.

The contrast between private and public libraries reflects changing reader preferences. While private libraries have adapted to the needs of examination aspirants through modern amenities, government libraries continue to hold an advantage in terms of collection size and public outreach.

N. Sujan, coordinator of Naujawan Bharat Sabha, a youth organisation, said libraries play an important role in helping young people understand social issues and encouraging informed discussions. He cited the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Library at Pedda Jalaripeta, run by the organisation, as an initiative aimed at promoting reading and social awareness among youth.

Former district library authority chairman Konda Rajiv Gandhi expressed concern over the cost of accessing books at private libraries. Owing to this, he has called for strengthening of public libraries through greater government support.

DistrictlLibrary authority chairman Vannemreddy Satish Kumar said plans are under way to modernise government libraries by establishing book deposit centres in every ward and adding more than two lakh books to their collections.

The evolving reading culture in Visakhapatnam highlights the growing demand for modern study facilities and the need to revitalise public libraries as centres of learning, research, and community engagement.