A novel initiative to revive the reading habit among the children, 'Class Library' to be introduced in schools will facilitate a library in all classrooms in Trivandrum. It is expected to be functional by the end of August.
Each class will be equipped with over 100 books. It will be rotated amongst other classes and with the local libraries to encourage children to read a maximum number of books. According to C Manoj Kumar, Deputy Director of Education (DDE) Thiruvananthapuram, the first phase of the project implementation is completed. "We have identified as many as 6000 classrooms in the revenue district for the implementation of the project. The schools will seek the help of local self-government bodies for obtaining books and shelves. The project is expected to be fulfilled by the end of August," said DDE.
The implementation has begun in at least a few of the schools. "We already have an existing book corner, but the same will be strengthened as part of the 'Class Library' project. At least 150 to 200 books will be equipped in every classroom. Students have been informed regarding the book collection and is expected to finish the collection by the end of this month," said, Winsty CM, Vice-principal of Government Higher Secondary School for Girls Cotton Hill.
The project has received a good response from the side of authors and literature enthusiasts. "The setting up of libraries in every classroom helps to inculcate reading habit among the children. Children might not read even if parents insist them to. Instead, they will read without even their knowledge once they see the books in front of them or being read by their friends. Let's hope the project to bring back the reading habit among children," said author KA Beena.
How class library works?
Local self-government bodies, students and parents will be encouraged to donate books.
'Pustaka Vandi' that collects books from people will be set with the help of local self-government bodies.
One student from each class will be designated for the post of librarian.
Two registers will be ensured in classes for maintaining the list of books and for circulation.
Book reading, discussions and book review meetings will be organised at regular intervals.
