#BookLoversDay – Small Libraries, Big Impact: The Magic of Library Corners in RCI’s Communities

No matter how much Walt Disney dazzled children with his fantastic world of animation, to keep his inner child alive, he would go back to books. Maybe that’s why he famously said, “There is more treasure in books than in all the pirates’ loot on Treasure Island.”

From the joy of learning a new word to losing yourself in a world you weave from words, books are simply enchanting. But in the case of children, the power of a book multiplies. Books build vocabulary, spark curiosity, and offer a sense of wonder that every child deserves to experience.

This belief lies at the heart of Railway Children India’s Library Corner initiative.

How It All Began

In marginalized communities, children face numerous setbacks, which often even keep them out of school. It is no surprise then that in such communities, books are rare and reading can be limited to the classroom. The Library Corner was born out of the need to change this—to offer a dedicated space where children could read freely, joyfully, and without pressure.

“We received a generous donation of books from Heritage School,” shares Tawakkul Khan, Program Officer at Railway Children India. “We already had some books in our safe space. That’s when the idea struck: why not create a space just for reading, where children can interact with books in a fun and meaningful way?”

And so, the Library Corner was created, complete with mats, shelves, and of course, colourful books aplenty.

Open To Every Child, Every Imagination

“We haven’t restricted it to a particular age group,” Tawakkul explains. Children of all ages are welcome, from the youngest toddlers flipping through picture books to older children diving into short stories or learning resources.

The library stocks a diverse collection of books, with no fixed language, theme, or genre. The goal is simple: let children pick the book that speaks to them.

More than Books, a Collection of Experiences

The Library Corner is more than just shelves of books; it’s a space full of activity and shared learning. Group reading sessions, storytelling circles, and vocabulary games are regularly held, often facilitated by volunteers. “Volunteers play a key role,” says Tawakkul. “They help children with difficult words, read aloud, and narrate stories. It makes the whole experience interactive and fun.”

Change Is in Progress …

Although it’s still early, the response from children toward the Library Corners has been heartening. “They come regularly. They read in groups. They discuss stories. The interest is growing,” Tawakkul observes.

But What’s Next for the Library Corner?

As interest grows, so does the need for expansion. The team plans to introduce more age-appropriate books, especially in Hindi, and increase the collection of storybooks that capture children’s attention. “We want to keep the spark alive,” says Tawakkul. “Books have so much to offer—imagination, knowledge, comfort—and our goal is to give every child equal access to the treasure trove of books.”

This Book Lovers Day, let’s celebrate the joy of reading—especially the newfound joy brewing in Railway Children India’s communities—where the Library Corners may not be grandiose, but for the child who visits that corner every morning, they’re a gateway to a world beyond their clustered bastis.