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In 2020, during the nationwide lockdown prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, rural communities faced significant challenges. In response, the Helpers of Needy Persons team was established to provide essential support and assistance to those in need. The team remained actively engaged in delivering aid and services throughout this period, with a particular focus on education due to its transformative potential.
To address the lack of access to educational resources in rural areas, a book bank initiative was launched on Gandhi Jayanti, October 2, 2020. Recognizing the financial constraints that hinder children from obtaining study materials, a room was rented to house the book bank. ‘Apka Book Bank’, the endeavor aimed to create a sense of ownership and accessibility within the community. Over time, the initiative gained momentum, garnering support from various stakeholders, and contributing to the establishment of the first permanent free book bank in the Samastipur district of Bihar.
Promoting a culture of book donation instead of selling, the team actively engaged with the community, facilitating book collections and employing a process of repairing damaged books for reuse. Subsequently, on January 1, 2022, a free school was inaugurated, enrolling 43 students and operating daily, including specialized activities such as painting classes.
The team further enriched its outreach efforts by organizing diverse programs, and consistently conveying pertinent messages and lessons to the nation and society at large.
Dibhutipur, near DBKN College,
Narhan,
Samastipur,
Bihar – 848211
Library Contact: Pandav Kumar Ray
Contact Email: pandav85ray@gmail.com
| Library Staff Members | 21 |
| Library Member Strength | 1500 |
| Gender Breakdown of Members | Female: 40% Male: 60% |
| Age Groups Served | Below 5yrs to 21yrs+ |
| Library Branches | 1 |
| Villages/Clusters Served | 16 villages, 1500 people |
| Book Collection Size | 2000 |
| Type of Books in Collection | Academic Books till 12th Standard, Competetive Exam Books, IIT, MBBS, NEET entrance book, Poetry books |
| Average Daily Footfalls | 5-6 approx |
| Types of Reading Programs | Book Circulation |
| Other Library Programs | Celebration of National Event/Local events such as Independence Day, Republic Day, Sapling Plantation on World Environment Day, etc. |
| Presence of Various Library Policies (enrollment/admission, safety, anti-discrimination & inclusion guidelines etc) | No |