Archive · 6 Jan 2026
India Expands Public Libraries to Foster Reading
In India, the Delhi government is working with NGOs to open new libraries in every Assembly area.
These libraries will have books, newspapers, and magazines for people to read.
The government gives money to NGOs to help set up and run these libraries.
There are already many public libraries in India, especially in the southern states.
The goal is to get more people, especially young ones, to read and enjoy books.
Some people worry that young people prefer the internet over reading physical books, but the government hopes these new libraries will help change that.
Delhi government plans to open libraries in all 70 Assembly constituencies under the 'Bhagidari' scheme.
NGOs will partner to provide space and reading materials, with government grants supporting setup and operations.
First-year grant of Rs 1.03 lakh for NGOs, with subsequent annual grants of up to Rs 40,000.
India has 46,746 public libraries, with southern states having the highest concentration.
Young people's preference for digital content over physical books is a concern, but the initiative aims to promote reading.
- Who
- Delhi government and NGOs
- What
- Setting up libraries in all Assembly constituencies
- When
- Ongoing initiative, with grants provided annually
- Where
- Delhi, India
- Why
- To encourage reading habits, particularly among young people from economically weaker sections
- Number of Public Libraries in India
- 46,746 (as of 2018-19)
- Libraries in Southern States
- 21,485 (over 45% of total)
- Libraries in Maharashtra
- 12,191 (highest in India)
- Libraries in Kerala
- 8,415 (highest in Southern India)
- Libraries in Andhra Pradesh
- 978 (post-bifurcation)
- Libraries in Telangana
- 672 (post-bifurcation)
- Libraries in Tamil Nadu
- 4,622
- Libraries in Karnataka
- 6,798
- Grant-in-Aid for NGOs (First Year)
- Rs 1.03 lakh
- Grant-in-Aid for NGOs (Subsequent Years)
- Up to Rs 40,000 annually