CHENNAI: Magazine Puram is among the oldest and most densely populated areas in the Vyasarpadi locality of north Chennai. But for the residents of Ward 46, there are no public libraries despite repeated requests. “While other areas that were formed later saw the rapid development of facilities like libraries, the demands to construct one here still haven’t been met,” ED Elango, a social activist in the area told Express.
The lack of a library in her ward is forcing young women like N Jayachitra to depend on facilities available in neighbouring ones. After reaching Class IX, she became a member of one in Ward 37. “I discovered that library when I went to take part in some competition. Till then, I was not aware how to even borrow books,” added another girl, a second-year student at Ethiraj College for Women.
For them, accessing the facility at a relatively distant place poses several challenges. Jayachitra, for instance, is studying in evening college, which means she gets home late. “If there is a library in our area, I can access it even after coming back from college. Like me, there are many women here who want to go to the library, but are prevented by the distance,” she added.
Tired of hearing the ‘lack of available land’ excuse as the reason for not establishing a library, residents recently identified land, measuring over 2,500 square feet, at Sathya Murthy Nagar.
“Chennai Corporation constructed a children’s playground which has now turned into a haven for anti-social elements. Since the land has now changed hands from the Slum Clearance Board to the civic body, there is nothing that stops them from establishing a library here. This will help refine many of the young minds that indulge in notorious activities here,” said Elango, who gave a petition to Perambur MLA P Vetrivel.
Speaking to this newspaper, MLA Vetrivel said: “As it is already a children’s playground, I have asked Chennai Corporation officials about the feasibility of converting it into a library. If not, we will look for alternative sites in the vicinity. The assessment work is ongoing.”
