Reviving Reading Culture: Assam's Innovative Street Library

A Unique Reading Initiative in Nalbari

Nalbari, Jan 10: In an era where mobile devices dominate our attention, a remarkable reading initiative is emerging on the streets of Nalbari district in Assam.

Dubbed "Roi Ja Batoruwa", this street library, established by government officer and author Shivani Bora, encourages passersby to take a moment, relax, and rediscover the pleasure of reading.

Located opposite Raghunath Choudhary Higher Secondary School along the bustling Hajo–Doulaxal–Guwahati main road, the library is strategically positioned in Mukalmua to attract students, travelers, and local youth who frequent the area.

Unlike traditional libraries, "Roi Ja Batoruwa" does not enforce formal membership, silence, or lengthy commitments.

It promotes spontaneity, allowing anyone to stop by, read a few pages, and continue on their way.

“There’s seating available, it’s slightly distanced from the main road, and the nearby school makes it accessible and inviting for students,” Bora remarked.

Although intended to be open 24 hours, the library currently operates during the day, with plans to extend hours into the evening.

The initiative officially launched in early 2026, following a delay from its original start date of November 18 due to professional obligations.

For Bora, who works with the Integrated Child Development Project (ICDP) in Mukalmua, the concept of a street library has been a long-held aspiration influenced by her own childhood experiences.

“When travelers pass by, we often say, ‘Wait, traveler, rest for a while.' Through this library, I wanted to convey the same message. Take a moment, pick up a book, and immerse yourself in reading! Even a brief encounter with a book can plant the seeds of a good habit,” Bora shared.

The library features a modest yet significant collection, including five books authored by Bora herself, comprising short stories and novels along with other literary works.

What started as a personal project has transformed into a community reading hub that welcomes everyone at no cost.

At the core of this initiative lies a pressing social issue: the increasing susceptibility of rural youth to drugs and other addictive behaviors.

Mukalmua, like many small towns in Assam, faces this challenge. Bora believes that reading can serve as a subtle yet powerful antidote to substance abuse.

“Those who resist the temptation of drugs can instead find solace in books,” she stated, emphasizing that books provide enduring companionship and knowledge that screens cannot replicate.

Bora aspires for her initiative to inspire similar projects throughout the state.

“We should establish such libraries in every corner of Assam at the village level. Only then can we cultivate a true reading culture,” she asserted.

She also voiced concerns regarding the declining state of the publishing industry in Assam, noting that while book fairs and festivals persist, daily reading habits are diminishing.

“Regardless of technological advancements, books remain vital. They are timeless. We learn, reflect, and evolve through them,” she added.

Despite her demanding role as a government official, Bora remains dedicated to her passion for writing and reading, viewing "Roi Ja Batoruwa" as both a personal mission and a social duty.

“This is merely the beginning,” she concluded.