Book lovers across the city are annoyed with the Hyderabad City Grandhalaya Samstha (HCGS). The reason: the ‘Readers Demand Book’ scheme has been on hold for the last few months, forcing them to buy the books from the market.
The HCGS introduced the scheme a few years ago at the 80-odd branch libraries across the city after people complained of shortage of books on certain subjects. About 10 per cent of the budget meant for purchase for new books was earmarked for the scheme.
The libraries kept a separate register where members or visitors could write down details of the title that was unavailable, such as the name of the author, publisher and so on. This request would be forwarded by the branch librarian to the HCGS head office. The book would then be acquired and made available. Members could then take it home and return it within the stipulated time.
Ever since the concept was introduced, several hundred of books of various subjects were sought by members and visitors, and made available.
A librarian pointed out that most of those availing the facility happened to be those from poor and lower middle-class background, who could not afford to buy personal copies for themselves. However, for the last four months, such requests made by the public are being turned down due to a shortage of funds.
“The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has stopped transferring the library cess to the HCGS for last couple of years. No new books were purchased in the current financial year due to fund crunch. We will resume the Readers Demand Book only after adequate funds are available,” says HCGS In-charge Secretary Niraja.
