Kerala, known for its lush green landscapes, serene backwaters, and rich cultural heritage, is also emerging as a hub for promoting literacy and literature. Among its many unique contributions, Kerala boasts two distinctive Villages of Books—Perumkulam and Mangad. These villages are pioneering efforts to create a reading culture, offering book lovers an enriching experience through community-driven initiatives.
In this article, we explore the journey of Perumkulam, Kerala’s first Village of Books, and Mangad, a village with a deep-rooted literary heritage. Both villages showcase how local communities can transform into literary hubs, making Kerala not just a state of natural beauty, but also one of intellectual wealth.
1. Perumkulam: Kerala’s First Village of Books
Location: Perumkulam, near Kollam, Kerala
Established: 2020
Languages: Malayalam, English
Perumkulam, a peaceful village located near Kollam in Kerala, earned the prestigious title of Kerala’s first Village of Books in 2020. The initiative was driven by B. Sreekumar, a local resident who had a vision of making his village a center of knowledge and reading. Sreekumar’s extensive personal library of over 11,000 books became the foundation for this literary transformation.
How Perumkulam Became a Village of Books
The idea behind Perumkulam’s transformation was to create a space where reading could thrive within the community. Supported by cultural organizations and local bodies, the village started to implement the concept of a free and open library system, where books are available to everyone.
Several public and private spaces in Perumkulam were converted into small street libraries and mobile libraries. These libraries operate on a self-service model where residents and visitors can take a book, read it at their convenience, and return it when done. This free exchange of knowledge encourages readers to explore different genres and expand their horizons.
Focus on Malayalam Literature
While Perumkulam offers a wide range of books in both Malayalam and English, the village places special emphasis on promoting Malayalam literature. The village’s collection includes works from famous Malayalam authors such as Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, O.V. Vijayan, and M.T. Vasudevan Nair, offering readers an opportunity to delve into Kerala’s rich literary tradition.
Additionally, books on Kerala’s history, culture, and folklore are available, making the village not only a destination for avid readers but also for those interested in understanding the region’s cultural landscape.
Sreekumar’s Vision and Community Involvement
B. Sreekumar, the driving force behind the Village of Books initiative, has a deep love for literature and a desire to share it with others. His collection of books formed the basis for Perumkulam’s reading spaces, and his continued efforts to involve the local community have kept the initiative thriving.
The people of Perumkulam actively participate in the running of the village libraries. This involvement includes donating books, organizing literary events, and encouraging children to read. The focus on building a reading culture from the grassroots level is what makes Perumkulam a model for other communities aiming to promote literacy.
Why Visit Perumkulam?
Perumkulam offers a unique literary experience for those interested in exploring Malayalam literature and the concept of community-driven reading spaces. The village is an inspiring example of how local efforts can create lasting change, promoting a love for reading among people of all ages. Visitors to Perumkulam can enjoy the calm environment while browsing through collections of books that reflect Kerala’s rich literary and cultural heritage.
2. Mangad: Honoring the Legacy of P.N. Panicker
Location: Mangad, Kollam district, Kerala
Established: 2019
Languages: Malayalam, English
Another important literary hub in Kerala is Mangad, a village in the Kollam district that became famous for its association with P.N. Panicker, the father of the library movement in Kerala. P.N. Panicker is credited with initiating the concept of public libraries and promoting literacy across Kerala. His movement, known as the Vayana Vaaram (Reading Week), is celebrated each year to encourage reading among people of all ages.
Mangad, where Panicker was born, honors his legacy by embracing books and reading as integral parts of its community identity. The village actively supports the growth of public libraries and encourages every household to create its own small library, following Panicker’s principle that “a library in every home” is the foundation of a literate society.
The Library Movement in Kerala
P.N. Panicker’s contributions to Kerala’s literacy revolution are legendary. He believed that the key to social and economic development lay in educating the masses through books. In 1945, he started the Kerala Granthashala Sangham (Library Movement), which eventually led to the establishment of hundreds of public libraries across Kerala. His efforts were instrumental in turning Kerala into India’s most literate state, with a literacy rate of over 96%.
Mangad’s Role in Promoting Reading
Mangad has continued to build on Panicker’s legacy by promoting reading as a way of life. The village’s libraries, many of them in public spaces like schools and community centers, offer free access to books in various genres, from literature and science to philosophy and politics. Mangad has also adopted the concept of street libraries, much like Perumkulam, where residents can borrow and return books freely.
In addition to its focus on public libraries, Mangad celebrates Reading Week every year, organizing literary events, book fairs, and discussions on the importance of literacy. These activities ensure that the younger generation stays connected to the habit of reading, reinforcing the village’s reputation as a center for learning.
Why Visit Mangad?
Visitors to Mangad can explore the P.N. Panicker Memorial, which commemorates the life and work of this visionary leader. The village offers a deep insight into Kerala’s library movement, providing a unique opportunity to understand how grassroots efforts in literacy can impact an entire state.
For those passionate about books and learning, Mangad is a destination that showcases how one person’s vision can transform a community. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Kerala’s literary heritage and the development of public libraries in India.
Conclusion: Kerala’s Commitment to Literacy and Reading
The Villages of Books in Kerala—Perumkulam and Mangad—stand as shining examples of how literature can shape a community. Through grassroots efforts and community participation, these villages have created environments where books are celebrated, and the love for reading is nurtured.
Perumkulam and Mangad not only promote regional literature in Malayalam but also make books accessible to everyone, breaking down barriers to literacy. By fostering a deep connection between readers and literature, these villages contribute to Kerala’s status as the most literate state in India. For bibliophiles, cultural enthusiasts, and those who seek to understand the power of community-driven initiatives, these Villages of Books are well worth a visit.
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