On January 12, the newly restored Goschen Library in Chennai welcomed visitors with an atmosphere rich in nostalgia. Among them was Padmavathi, an elderly Chintadripet resident, who eagerly browsed the library’s collection of Tamil novels. Clutching two books she intended to borrow, she recounted her fond memories of visiting the library decades ago before it fell into disrepair. “It’s wonderful to walk through these doors again,” she said, embodying the sentiments of many who have returned to this beloved institution. Another patron, Saravanan N., shared similar feelings, recalling his regular visits after school nearly two decades ago.
The library, inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin just last week, is already seeing an impressive daily footfall of around 50 visitors, according to librarian Dhinakaran D.P. As the library approaches its centenary on January 23, extensive renovations have been completed at a cost of ₹2.36 crore, revitalizing both the building’s historic architecture and its amenities. While preserving its traditional appeal, the library now offers modern facilities, including an inviting children’s reading room equipped with round carrel-style tables, a selection of children’s magazines, and shelves filled with science books and short stories in both English and Tamil.
A notable addition is the exclusive reading room for women, featuring around 3,000 titles focusing on empowerment, along with fiction and non-fiction works authored by women. The lending section boasts a diverse range of literature, including Tamil works in genres like history and medicine, alongside English titles from contemporary authors such as Madeline Miller and John Green, as well as timeless classics. “We have approximately 18,000 books available, along with facilities catering to those preparing for competitive exams,” Mr. Dhinakaran explained. The library is equipped with three computers, Wi-Fi access for personal devices, and is climate-controlled with seven air conditioners, creating a comfortable reading environment.
Enhancing the library experience further, the facility has undergone improvements including refurbished restrooms and a spacious backyard for readers to enjoy. “We are currently in talks with a nearby school to establish a weekly dedicated library hour for middle-school students in the children’s section. Many such initiatives are planned for the future,” he added.
District Library Officer Kavitha M. emphasized the library’s cultural significance, noting its unique Indo-Saracenic architectural style, which makes it a key landmark for heritage walks. Membership to the library is affordable, with a one-time fee of ₹30 and an annual subscription fee of ₹10 for borrowing books.
As the Goschen Library embarks on this new chapter, it stands not only as a repository of knowledge but also as a communal space fostering learning and empowerment, ensuring its place in the hearts of Chennai’s residents for another century. The library is poised to connect generations through literature, reflecting the city’s enduring love for reading and education.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/goschen-library-finds-its-readers-again-after-restoration/article70501460.ece
Category : Chennai
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Publish Date: 2026-01-13 08:14:00
