Kavre, October 16

Chanda Gautam, 50, of Pokhari Chauri VDC -5, has been frequenting the library in her village in Kavre. Gautam, who is fond of reading holy books, has started reading the Ramayana at her house of late.

Gautam said the books give her a respite from daily household chores. “I started reading religious books after I learning the alphabets. I enjoy reading as well as am learning a lot,” said Gautam.

Another local Sharada Chaulagain, 40, has also been addicted to reading religious texts. “I either got to the library or borrow books to read whenever I have the time,” said Chaulagain.

A large number of women and the elderly have developed the habit of reading books because of the Sulikot-based Community Library.

These people have expressed their happiness over being able to read various books of their choice in the library. “Books related to diverse fields are available. Hence, I read books of my choice or take them home and read there,” said a local woman.

Library Assistant Sabitri Chaulagai said that women from adjoining areas also visit the library to read books.

“The number of women visiting the library is much larger than men,” said Chaulagain.

The local Sahayogi Community Study Centre had set up the library a year ago. The library is the only community library in the 17 VDCs across Koshi. Around 1,500 books related to literature, human rights, politics, mythology, and agriculture are available in the library. Daily and weekly newspapers published from the district also are available there.

“If anybody wants to take a book home, it is lent out for a week,” said centre Chairperson Yadav Chaulagain.

He said that the centre was planning to add other books and a computer to make the library more resourceful and managed.