Vadodara, a city in Gujarat, is home to Asia’s only cooperative library society. Established in 1924 under the inspiration of Sayajirao Gaekwad, the Gujarat Library Cooperative Society has played a crucial role in promoting reading and knowledge for over a century. With more than 1,200 public libraries as members, this society has published over 725 books, ensuring that literature thrives in the region.
The roots of library development in Vadodara can be traced back to 1910 when the Library Department was founded. Sayajirao Gaekwad aimed to enhance reading culture in his kingdom. By 1947, Vadodara had around 2,300 libraries, including significant ones in towns like Amreli and Navsari, contributing to the state’s rich literary heritage.
The Central Library, the largest in Gujarat, housed about 105,000 books by 1925. This was a remarkable achievement, benefiting up to 70% of the population. The library also had separate reading rooms for women, promoting gender inclusivity in education.
In 1924, the cooperative society was established to manage these libraries efficiently. The initiative was led by visionary leaders like Motibhai Amin, with Chunilal Purushottamdas Shah as the first president. This cooperative model allowed public libraries to join as members, enabling them to access a variety of books and resources from a central hub.
The society emphasizes the publication of works by renowned authors who might otherwise not find a publisher. Notable writers like Yogeshwar and Madhav Chaudhary saw their first works published through this initiative. The society continues to operate in Vadodara, providing books and resources at discounted rates, encouraging continuous reading and learning.
Today, Vadodara’s cooperative library society stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to education and culture. It not only preserves the rich literary history of Gujarat but also fosters a love for reading among its citizens. The society’s efforts have greatly contributed to making Vadodara a culturally rich and educated city.
With ongoing initiatives and events, the library society remains a vital part of Vadodara’s landscape, ensuring that the thirst for knowledge continues to be quenched for generations to come. As this cooperative reaches its 101st year, it reflects on its journey and looks forward to enhancing the reading culture even further. The cooperative library model serves as an inspiration for other regions, showing how collective effort can lead to significant achievements in education and cultural enrichment.
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