Libraries

ISAR currently manages two children’s libraries, two women’s libraries, and one public library in Rapar, and houses 25,000 books, with over 1,500 registered members. Operational costs of these libraries are provided by the Government of Gujarat.

    Children’s Library

    We have established children’s libraries with an aim to encourage reading habits amongst children in the lower social classes and cultivating a scientific attitude during their formative years from 5 to 12. Our extensive lending and reference libraries offer a wide range of books, journals and other reading material aimed at supporting children’s self development through acquisition of knowledge. The library also provides areas for study and acts as the hub for children’s activities enabling them to express their creativity through drawing classes and competitions, production of street plays for wider audiences on a range of issues affecting children. Through the library literature, workshops, lectures and other programmes the children are also made aware of environmental and health issues. 

    ISAR arranges book exhibitions for both general reading material and those focussing on scientific literature attended by children, parents and teachers to further encourage the reading habit and scientific thinking. 

      In past, we have organized children’s street plays, where they have curated performances on social issues such as, child labour, child rights, environmental protection, literacy, hygiene, and dispelling belief in superstition and black magic through scientific thinking. We regularly organize visits to Science City, Science Fairs and Exhibition, and invite a diverse range of faculties to interact with our library members to cultivate a scientific attitude. The children have also been introduced to the natural world through visits to wildlife parks. 

       

      BOOKS NO.
      Bal Granthalay rapar 3061
      Mahila rapar 2585
      Sarvjanik 3155
      Bal salari 9393
      Mahila salari 7593

        Women’s Library

        We started our two women’s libraries with an aim to bridge the gap between marginalized women and access to knowledge, information, and opportunities for personal growth.

        Our libraries serve as a vital resource hub and empowering sanctuary, for rural communities, where educational resources are often scarce, and traditional gender roles may limit women’s access to formal education. At ISAR library, we provide a safe and inclusive space where women can engage in self-directed learning, expand their horizons, and acquire valuable skills and knowledge that can uplift not only themselves but their children, families and communities as well. Moreover, we make sure that women that come to our library don’t feel pressured, they have complete autonomy to choose the learning pace they are comfortable with, and we will play a supporting role and provide anything they require during the learning process.  

        We offer a diverse range of books, educational materials, and programs tailored to the specific needs and interests of women of Rapar. We have books on social change, gender equality, and novels that take them far beyond the confines of their physical and mental walls. Our libraries empower individuals to challenge societal norms, pursue their passions, and chart their own paths to success. In essence, our women’s libraries in Rapar serve as transformative agents of empowerment, unlocking the potential of women and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.

        Photo Credits: Meena Kadri and ISAR Team