For an avid reader, this library offers a voluminous collection of books, magazines and newspapers and a quite an atmosphere to revel in. But while all is well inside, the exterior is what has got the chief librarian and many patrons complaining about this LLA branch library on Sivagnanam Salai in T. Nagar.
This concrete structure covered with asbestos sheet is a property of the Corporation offered to the library on a temporary basis. Earlier, the library was operating from a sprawling space which is where the Thyagaraja auditorium stands today. “The Corporation took the place from us and constructed a hall there and the library was shifted to this temporary place which was a noon meal centre. We were promised to be shifted either to a new building or within a Corporation school premise, but we are still here after almost seven years,” says Kamalakannan, the library in-charge.
After undertaking renovation work, checking the electrical wiring, installing lights and fans, the library opened its door to the public. “As this is the only public library in T. Nagar, we found a lot of patrons. On any day, there are 50 to 60 people who either come and read here or take books home,” he adds.
But entry to the library is only possible after crossing a few hurdles such as concrete road materials, iron rods and a few make-shift sheds. This has been placed by the Corporation for undertaking road development work in the area. “We have represented the matter to the Corporation several times, but nothing has been done. They would shift the material out on the day we complain, but a few days later it would be back. Senior citizens and especially women find it hard to come inside,” says Kamalakannan, who gets his employees to move the debris time and again.
Even the walking path is full of gravel and difficult to park vehicles inside the compound. Also, of the over 26,600 books not all can be shelved in the 900 sq ft space. “We have stored a few books in another room. We buy 65 monthly magazines and 8 newspapers a day. This library is really useful for the people but for this long-pending issue,” he adds.
The library which is open from 8 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. will draw more people if an alternative entrance is provided for them, the librarian believes.
