Reading best addiction to avoid bad habits: Meenakashi Lekhi

Anshita Mehra

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New Delhi, February 21

Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture Meenakashi Lekhi inaugurated a public library refurbished by New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) at Veer Savarkar Park, Lodhi Road, here on Wednesday.

In her remarks during the inauguration, Lekhi referred the importance of libraries to spaces for learning and self-improvement. She said, “A library is a place where any person can enjoy learning and reading is the best addiction to avoid other ill-addictions.”

She highlighted the significance of reading and learning habits in line with the national initiative of “Padhega Bharat Toh Badhega Bharat”.

Amit Yadav, chairman, NDMC, expressed gratitude to the minister for providing funds for the refurbishment of the library.

The public library, refurbished with the help of MPLAD fund of Rs 10 lakh, offers a wide range of books in Hindi, English, Punjabi, Urdu and folktales for children.

“The newly refurbished library, located near Veer Savarkar Park in Lodhi Colony, is spread in 115 sq m across two floors,” said Yadav, adding, “With a capacity to accommodate approximately 75 persons/students, the library provides a conducive environment for reading and learning.”

To facilitate the public, the library is equipped with book racks, study tables and chairs. Currently, the NDMC operates eight libraries for the public, with plans to modernise and digitise four libraries, according to the chairman.

Approximately 55,000 visitors annually benefit from public libraries look after by NDMC and over 13,949 books were issued last year.

The chairman said plans are underway to procure new books in the next financial year.