Despite Bengaluru’s legacy as a haven for book lovers, visits to public libraries have dwindled in the age of e-books and online retailers. For many newer or younger residents, historic libraries remain undiscovered gems. Hoping to shift this trend, the Indian Institute for Human Settlements (IIHS), in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut, has launched a Public Library Walk to reconnect people with these vital community spaces.
“Today’s concerns—ranging from war to unemployment—push libraries far down the priority list,” says Sheshagiri Kulkarni, Head of Information and Library at Goethe-Institut. “People express disappointment when libraries shut down, yet their absence is due to dwindling footfalls. These walks are about reintroducing libraries into people’s lives and reigniting reading habits,” he explains. He notes that many participants return later to sign up for memberships.
The walk begins at Goethe-Institut, Indiranagar, with breakfast, and proceeds to State Central Library, Mythic Society Library, and Alliance Francaise’s library, wrapping up with lunch at IIHS. Librarians will offer guided tours, narrating the origins of collections, how to navigate catalogues, and showcasing curated sections—especially on Bengaluru’s local history, including maps and archives. Each library stop lasts 30–45 minutes.
While not a history tour per se, the journey often reveals fascinating relics. “At Seshadri Memorial Library, we once tracked down its 1915 foundation stone in a gated section,” shares Kulkarni. Many even discover historic libraries they unknowingly pass daily.
Entry is free. The next walk starts 9:30 AM at Goethe-Institut and ends at 2 PM. More details: library.iihs.co.in
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