In January 2024, OJASH WELFARE Society opened the doors of "Gyan Ghar"—a community library in the heart of Bandikui that has since transformed into a beacon of hope for hundreds of children. The library houses over 3,000 books in Hindi and English, covering everything from textbooks to storybooks, science encyclopedias to biographies of great leaders. For children who have never owned a book, this library is nothing short of magical. Every afternoon, the reading room fills with eager faces, small fingers tracing words on pages, and whispered excitement as children discover new stories.
The library was built from the ground up with community participation. Local craftsmen constructed the shelves, women's groups donated curtains, and children themselves helped paint the colorful walls. This sense of ownership has made Gyan Ghar truly belong to the community. We operate on a simple principle: any child can borrow any book, no questions asked, no fees charged. We believe that access to knowledge should never depend on the thickness of one's wallet. In a region where most families cannot afford a single storybook, our library has democratized reading.
Beyond lending books, Gyan Ghar hosts weekly storytelling sessions where village elders share folk tales and volunteers read aloud from picture books. We organize monthly "Reading Champions" competitions that have sparked healthy rivalry among students from different villages. The library also serves as a quiet study space for students preparing for board exams—many of whom live in single-room homes where studying is impossible. One student, Mohit, told us he scored 85% in his 10th boards by studying every evening at Gyan Ghar. Without the library, he would have failed.
The ripple effects of Gyan Ghar extend far beyond reading. Children who were glued to mobile phones now eagerly await library hours. Parents report improved language skills and vocabulary in their children. Teachers notice better comprehension and creativity in classwork. We have even started an adult literacy corner where mothers learn to read alongside their children every Sunday morning. Our dream is to establish five more such libraries across rural Dausa district. Every book we add, every child who reads, brings us closer to a more educated, empowered India.
