PNS | DEHRADUN
The children’s section of the Doon Library and Research Centre (DLRC) has received a favourable response, with an increase in membership amounting to 70 members in just 50 days. Notably, this section was inaugurated in August 2024. The children’s section library is exclusively accessible to children for reading on Fridays and Saturdays. Further, to enhance interest in the library, the DLRC administration organises activities and workshops for children on Saturdays and Sundays. Regarding the success of the children’s section library, the section in charge, Megha said that it officially commenced in August 2024, and given that it is open only two days a week, it has been operational for about 50 days so far.
In light of the shortened duration of 50 days, the section has experienced a notable success rate regarding children’s membership. Initially, only eight members were registered at the section’s inception. However, this number has now risen to 70, reflecting significant growth in a brief period. She further said that the membership options available for the children’s section encompass both regular and special categories. Regular membership requires typical students to pay an annual fee of Rs 100, while special membership is provided at no charge for children from NGOs, orphanages, government shelter homes and other organisations. Further, an amount of Rs 500 is collected by the administration as a security deposit, which is refundable.
She informed that to increase engagement and improve facilities, they organise activities and workshops every Saturday and Sunday. She emphasised that the success rate of these initiatives has been commendable; initially, only 32 children participated, whereas the most recent events attracted a total of 537 participants.
It will be recalled that the library was previously designated for teenagers, young adults and senior citizens. However, to enhance the library’s offerings, the DLRC has decided to establish a children’s reading section for children aged between seven and 15 years.
