Mobile library helps change Majauli Island

GUWAHATI - Majuli is the largest riverine island populated by tribal people in upper Assam has basic medical and educational infrastructure, but to facilitate education on the island, some local people have started a mobile library.

Thirty-year-old Mitu Khataniya who was born in Kamalabari in Majuli, completed his M.A. degree from Dibrugarh in 2003.

Even as he was completing his master’s degree he kept dreaming of making education accessible to the people of Majuli and eradicating backwardness.

In 2004, Mitu launched a mobile library to help local students.

His effort was supported by Preserver Majuli, an NGO.

“This is our great concept to spread education in this area.

Though education is spread a far, we think, it’s not enough. We are far behind till yet. Due to lack of communication problem, this area is totally not developed yet,” said Mitu Khataniyar, ounder, Mobile Library

Push Cart Mobile library has four volunteers who deliver books to students at their schools.

Currently, the library has 700 books in Assamese and another 250-300 books in English and Hindi will soon be added.

Students do not need a Library Card, but just have to enter their name, class and school in the record book of the mobile library to borrow a book for maximum period of two months.

“After the Mobile Library came to our school, we learned many new things and have gained knowledge from reading different books provided. I hope the library will continue visiting our school and also to serve the people of this land forever,” said Arnab Jyoti Khataniyar, Student.

“Not only the students but also the teachers have benefited a lot. I am sure that after the introduction of this mobile library in Majuli, thousands of students especially from rural areas have gained knowledge, as the books given by them are mostly not in the school curriculum/syllabus,” said Jiban Borah, Teacher.

The arrival of the mobile library has benefited more than 7-8 thousands students on Majuli Island. By Vashipem amodang(ANI)