Reviving Trivandrum's Libraries: Transforming Public Library in Trivandrum into a Modern Hubs for Social and Literary Interaction

 Libraries in Trivandrum, like the Public Library at Palayam and University Library, are treasure troves of knowledge hubs but are often underutilized due to modern distractions.

I remember going through regularly to Public Library at Palayam, when I was in school. I was happy browsing through comic books, sitting on those little stools and chairs. After I completed my schooling, I tried to set foot inside that section. But, once a staff said, it's meant for kids. And, that stopped my visits to that sweet heaven spot! Also, I fondly remember the time I used to visit British Library when it was functioning at YMCA compound! 

Libraries Need to Evolve with the Times!

I wonder if a young person in their 20's living in Trivandrum now has been to Public Library! With the rise of mobile phone, young people have more distraction and knowledge in their fingertips! Why all the hassles of going to a library to browse! 

This is when we need to plan a new process! 

 By evolving libraries into vibrant community spaces, we can revive interest in them and provide meaningful activities for book lovers. Below is a step-by-step plan to implement this idea.

Step 1: Establish a Vision and Define Objectives

Goal: Transform libraries into multifunctional spaces for literary, cultural, and social interactions.

Objectives:

• Increase footfall in libraries.
• Create revenue-generating opportunities for sustainability.
• Foster a sense of community among book lovers.

Step 2: Create a Dedicated Space for Events

Features:

• A modern hall equipped with air conditioning, podiums, audio-visual facilities, comfortable chairs, and proper washrooms.
• Separate space for hosting high-tea, dinners, or food and wine launches to generate revenue.
• A new-book sales corner where publishers and authors can showcase their work.

Requirements:

• Infrastructure: Sponsors can be approached to fund renovations.
• Amenities: Backup power generators, advanced lighting, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
• Sustainability: Partner with local businesses to fund maintenance.

Step 3: Plan Activities to Attract Diverse Audiences

• Book Launch Events
• 
  
• Invite authors for launches, with media coverage to draw crowds.
• Collaborate with publishers for exclusives.
• Book Discussions and Clubs

• Host regular discussions on popular and classic books.
• Invite literary critics and academicians as guest speakers.
• Book Sharing and Exchange Programs

• Encourage visitors to bring old books for exchange or sale.
• Create a “Give a Book, Take a Book” section in the library.

Thematic Events

• Poetry slams, storytelling sessions, and cultural evenings.
• Invite food bloggers and chefs for food and book-themed gatherings.

Workshops and Training for budding writers

• Creative writing workshops and sessions on how to self-publish books.
• Training on library science, reading techniques, and book preservation.
• Start a small unit which does book binding
• Workshops on content writing, creative writing
• Training on technical writing

Step 4: Set Up an Online Portal and Digital Promotions

Online Portal:

• Book event halls and register for activities online.
• Manage ticketing for revenue-generating events.
• Share schedules and updates on events.

Social Media Promotion:

• Create Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp groups to engage the audience.
• Post behind-the-scenes and testimonials to attract more visitors.
• Create a team of interns ( library science, journalism students) to manage whatsapp group, create content for blogs, etc

Step 5: Involve Library Science Students and Mentors

• Recruit library science students for hands-on training.
• Assign mentors to guide them in event management and library operations.
• Offer stipends or credits for their participation to ensure dedication.

Step 6: Ensure Maintenance and Sustainability

• Cleanliness: Hire dedicated staff to maintain hygiene and aesthetics.
• Infrastructure Management: Set up a separate team to handle maintenance and repairs.
• Funding: Organize donation drives and corporate sponsorship programs.

Step 7: Learn from Global Practices

• Many libraries abroad, like The British Library in London and The New York Public Library, host book fairs and sell new releases.
• Libraries like the Seattle Public Library integrate retail spaces and cafes, making them lively hubs.
• Use their models to create a fusion of literary and social spaces tailored to Trivandrum.

Step 8: Marketing the Space

• Highlight the uniqueness of combining literary activities with modern dining experiences.
• Promote the library as a premium venue for cultural and corporate events.
• Build partnerships with local schools, colleges, and businesses to expand reach.

Conclusion

Revamping libraries into multifunctional hubs can not only rekindle interest in books but also transform these spaces into self-sustaining cultural centers. By carefully planning, involving the community, and leveraging technology, Trivandrum's libraries can become role models for the modern library movement.


Curious Konnections 


P.S - As Public Library is situated in the heart of Trivandrum, there's another plan to utilize this location. 
If space permits in this compound, then govt can construct a modern stay-facility which can be utilized to provide daily accommodation. A hotel like facility for stay, with around 30 rooms can be planned. 

Such facilities can be given to recognized authors who're visiting Trivandrum, employees who are working in other libraries, donors who pay say 10 lakhs for library revival, Current MP of Trivandrum ( quota) and current MLAs of Trivandrum. 

The traffic rate will be subsidized for people who are listed as beneficiaries. For public, it will be the normal rate. The hotel/lodging facility will have cafeteria for people who are staying here. Also, the funds from this will help to run this unit!