Written by Abdul Basith
My three-week internship at Bookworm Library has been a transforming experience, full of enlightening encounters, significant tasks, and exciting community engagement. This experience not only increased my affection for the power of books, but it also demonstrated the significant impact libraries can have on promoting equality and accessibility.
I was promptly involved in a variety of events and activities that exhibited the library’s commitment to encouraging reading. My involvement started with the screening of Somnath Waghmare’s documentary “Chaityabhumi” and accompanying discussion with the filmmaker, it was an unforgettable cultural experience. The film’s moving tribute to Dr. Ambedkar, combined with Waghmare’s emphasis on music, provided dimension to the experience. Engaging with the filmmaker provided significant insights into the creative process, reinforcing the library’s role in encouraging inquiry, appreciation, and connection through books and cinema.
Every Monday, one of the Bookworm members held team-building exercises that greatly improved our team’s effectiveness. Categorizing job duties and examining alternative organizational approaches underlined the importance of critical thinking and collaboration. These sessions inspired us to think imaginatively and collaborate more effectively, which eventually benefited the library’s operations.
One of the most significant initiatives was the Travelling Library program, which distributes books to underprivileged communities, instilling a love of reading in children who would otherwise have limited access to literature. It was heartening to see the enthusiasm of children in Saligao, Orda, and Aradi as they borrowed books and played literacy games. These experiences highlighted the significance of community engagement and the practical benefits of providing reading materials to individuals in need.
An important aspect of my internship was auditing and preserving the library’s extensive collection. Tasks such as the White Room audit and mending books returned from schools were critical in ensuring that the library’s holdings remained in good condition for future readers. While these tasks may appear tedious, they are critical to ensuring a great reading experience.
Participating in summer camp activities was one of the most enjoyable aspects of my Bookworm experience. Assisting with visual arts programs and seeing the children’s creativity blossom through painting demonstrated the powerful impact of visual arts on young minds. Facilitator’s direction in introducing acrylic paints and experimenting with different techniques empowered the youngsters and improved their grasp of books through artistic expression. These sessions underlined Bookworm’s commitment to providing a supportive environment in which children can freely express themselves.
Understanding library displays and accessibility highlighted Bookworm’s dedication to equality and inclusion. Discussions regarding the Home-Based Library (HBL) initiative, which focuses on children with disabilities, emphasized the need for more accessible resources, such as Braille books. These interactions highlighted the significance of ensuring that our resources meet the different needs of all children, including those with vision impairments.
My internship also taught me the value of social media and community outreach. Creating reels for events such as the Reading Challenge and an inter-library visit in Saligao demonstrated the ability of digital platforms to engage a larger audience. These initiatives highlighted the library’s lively programs and showed the importance of social media in encouraging literacy and community engagement.
Discussions with long-term members and partners provided significant insights into the problems of maintaining and expanding Bookworm’s reach. Finding passionate individuals committed to the library’s mission and securing funds are constant endeavors that require teamwork. These discussions emphasized the value of teamwork and community support in conquering problems.
Overall, my three weeks at Bookworm Library were productive, fascinating, and culturally enriching. The library’s commitment to encouraging reading, inclusivity, and community engagement was clear throughout my work. This event reinforced my enthusiasm for libraries’ transformative role in strengthening individuals and communities via reading. Bookworm Library continues to be a beacon of hope and knowledge, instilling a love of reading and learning in everyone it touches.