Maharani Lakshmi Ammani College for Women (Autonomous) Leads Reading Revolution in Melukote with Multiple Libraries Launched

BENGALURU: Maharani Lakshmi Ammani College for Women (Autonomous) hosted a major literary and education-focused event, bringing together academics, library professionals, public representatives, social leaders and student volunteers. Organized in collaboration with Affectionate Hands, the Puttannaiah Foundation and the Library on Wheels team, the programme combined literary engagement with new initiatives aimed at strengthening access to books and digital learning resources.

Library Centres and Digital Initiatives Take Centre Stage

The event marked the launch of two new Library Centres, the premiere screening of the documentary Beyond the Book, the official launch of the Katheya Mobile Application by the Library on Wheels team, and the rollout of National Digital Library memberships. Together, the initiatives reflected the organisers’ focus on connecting traditional reading spaces with digital access and contemporary learning needs.

Academic Leadership and Library Community Participate

The proceedings began with a welcome address by Director Dr. Sharmistha Dutta, followed by a presidential address from Trustee Dr. Geetha Narayanan. Principal Dr. Nanda Kulkarni highlighted the growing relevance of digital libraries in modern education. Ms. Sowmya Sastry and Ms. Arun H.K welcomed library professionals and students from various colleges and schools, including Jain University CMS, Christ University Yeshwanthpur Campus, KLE Society’s S. Nijalingappa College, Rajajinagar, Oasis International School, St. Joseph College of Commerce and Ekya School.

Distinguished Guests Highlight the Importance of Libraries

Padma Shri Anke Gowda, who was honoured with India’s prestigious Padma Shri award in January 2026 for his extraordinary contributions to literacy and knowledge conservation, was among the distinguished guests at the event. Described by the organisers as the holder of the world’s largest private collection of library books, he expressed satisfaction with the initiative and emphasised the importance of preserving cultural artefacts alongside books. Sri Darshan Puttannaiah, MLA Melkote, reaffirmed his commitment to promoting literary programmes and appreciated the work of volunteers associated with the initiative.

Mohammed Suhaib Recognised for Leadership and Community Contribution

A key moment at the event was the presentation of the Visionary Leadership Award to Mohammed Suhaib, Founder of Affectionate Hands, recognising his leadership and contribution to the initiative. Guest of Honour Dr. M. Krishnamurthy spoke on the Five Laws of Library Science, while social scientist Shri Braj Kishor Gupta, Founder of GiantStep spoke about encouraging Gen Z to rediscover the joy of reading. The gathering also featured the presence of 98-year-old marathon runner Shri N. S. Dattatreya. As Founder of Affectionate Hands, Suhaib was also identified with the volunteer-led effort behind the programme alongside the Library on Wheels team, making the recognition a notable moment in an event centred on community participation, library development and access to learning resources.

Students and Volunteers Recognised for Quality Education

The event also recognised students from various schools and colleges with the Champion of Quality Education Award. Among the students who received the award were Areema Chandra, Raghul Prasath V, Shreyas Kalyan, Gowtham V, Pranav G Bhat, Tejas Gupta, Niharika, Srihita and Tanisha. Their participation was acknowledged as part of the wider volunteer effort supporting the Library Centres and the programme.

A Broader Push for Reading and Digital Literacy

The programme brought together literary activity, library development and digital literacy on a single platform. The organisers’ initiatives are aimed at encouraging continued engagement with books while expanding access to digital resources for learners and communities. The documentary screening and the launch of the Katheya Mobile Application by the Library on Wheels team further added a technology-oriented dimension to the event.

Event Concludes with a Focus on Youth and Learning

The gathering concluded with participation from youth, scholars, educators and community members. By combining new Library Centres, digital resources, literary programming and student-led volunteering, the event highlighted the continuing role of libraries as spaces for education, cultural preservation and community engagement. The Reading Revolution in Melukote initiative brought together traditional library development and digital access while recognising the contributions of community leaders, volunteers and students.