Written by Ela Rachel Roy, Bookworm Intern
My journey with Bookworm first began in 2013 when my sister and I used to visit the Library in Taleigao, often to borrow books and spend our afternoons there. Another connection we had with Bookworm was their annual Jumble Sale, where we would sometimes volunteer too. A major reason why I chose to intern here was to give back to the space that made up such an important part of our childhood and teen years.
From the very start of my internship, I was welcomed with open arms. I knew then that I had made the right choice. During my interview for this internship, I was told that I wouldn’t understand what Bookworm was all about until I experienced it for myself, and they were absolutely right! It truly is a holistic sanctuary in itself.
As of 2023, Bookworm has 5 Community Libraries in Goa and multiple traveling library sites, which I had the opportunity of visiting and interacting with the children. Interning at Bookworm opened up a world for me outside of my own. It instilled an urge in me to start reading and exploring books. It provides a space for individuals of all ages to learn new things and express their talents, thoughts and beliefs through activities, games and community mobilization. Through different aspects of library, nature, music, and art, Bookworm incorporates learning into our lives.
There is a different kind of joy that you feel when you see the enthusiasm and excitement with which the children come to participate in their sessions, or the happiness on their faces when the Travelling Library pulls up outside their homes. Nothing compares to the passion and desire that the children have for learning, and Bookworm helps make this possible.
During my internship, I got to travel to, and visit many parts of Goa that I had never seen before and spend time with children from around these little villages. This gave me the opportunity to talk to the children, assist with activities, and express my own understanding of things. Due to my fondness for art and craft, there were times when I would get so lost in the activities, and it took me back to my childhood.
I am fortunate to have been given the opportunity to interact with so many wonderful children and adults who have touched my life, and taken me back in time to books, stories, narrations and the simple joy of just being amongst the chatter of everyone.
There is definitely something unique about the space, the work environment, and the people at Bookworm. And at times when everyone was together, it felt whole, like a family. As an intern, I would call it The Dream Team. A bunch of talented and dedicated people who make an everyday effort to bring about a change through the library. I am genuinely grateful to have been a part of an organization that made me feel so valued and appreciated, and I will cherish my time spent here forever.