Anantapur libraries to become hubs of learning, creativity

The Anantapur district administration is taking significant steps to transform public libraries — Grandhalaya Samsthas, into knowledge centres for the future generations. As part of the initiative, libraries will now offer training in drawing, painting, and other creative disciplines. Officials have also been asked to provide all basic facilities at the libraries.

Joint Collector Shiv Narayan Sharma, who is in-charge of libraries in the district, recently held a meeting with officials of all the 79 libraries in the district. Mr. Shiv Narayan asked officials to identify retired professionals willing to serve as resource persons and mentor students coming to the libraries in drawing, dancing, painting, and playing musical instruments.

He asked officials to create awareness about the summer training classes being held by the Grandhalaya Samsthas and to ensure students take full advantage of the classes. Officials have also been asked to keep the libraries open so that students appearing for competitive examinations can have flexible access.

Mr. Shiv Narayan emphasised the importance of maintaining cleanliness, adhering to the scheduled operating hours, and timely collection of library fees from municipalities, and panchayats to support ongoing improvements.

The Joint Collector also asked officials to ensure basic facilities like toilets, lighting, fans and drinking water are available at the libraries.