Chennai libraries foster reading communities through themed meetups and readathons
Local libraries are transforming individual reading habits into shared social experiences through various interactive events and book clubs.
Libraries in Chennai are evolving from quiet book-lending spaces into active community hubs through readathons, themed meetups, and reading sessions, according to The New Indian Express.
At The Town Library (TTL) in Kotturpuram, which began functioning in June 2024, founder Shruti Nallappa said the space was created due to a lack of such environments in Chennai compared to cities like Bengaluru and Chandigarh.
TTL hosts activities including Kadhai Arangam storytelling for parents and children, Author Unplugged sessions, and full-night readathons from 9 pm to 5 am. Nallappa noted that night is often a favourite time for readers to read for 8-9 hours at a stretch.
A similar initiative exists at Easwari Lending Library through The Page Turner Book Club. Founded in March 2024 by third-generation entrepreneur Mukundan, the club provides a free, informal space for reading and discussion without registration or membership fees.
The club organises festival-themed gatherings and Book Lovers’ Meets across seven branches, primarily in Anna Nagar and Gopalapuram. While regular sessions are informal, these specific meetups require registration and provide participants with a package containing a book, stickers, and bookmarks.
Attendees, including psychologist and author Preethi Gupta R, said the sessions create a sense of connection and allow for the discovery of new genres through shared perspectives.