We are excited to share a transformative initiative, Grandhalayala Deepti – Reviving Libraries, Restoring Knowledge, led by our esteemed Burra Venkatesham, IAS, the initiator of Hour Bank of India.
On National Service Scheme (NSS) Day, September 24, we mobilized 10,000 NSS students across 10 libraries to breathe new life into these essential knowledge centers.
The Hon’ble Governor of Telangana, Jishnu Dev Varma, officially launched Grandhalayala Deepti at the historic State Central Library. This initiative, spearheaded by our State NSS Nodal Officer, aims to revitalize 670 public libraries, 1,000 private libraries, and 2,000 educational institution libraries across Telangana.
Why Libraries Matter More Than Ever
Libraries are not just buildings with books—they are temples of knowledge, gateways to opportunity, and bridges to the future. In an era of fleeting digital content, libraries offer depth, discipline, and discovery. They shape minds, fuel aspirations, and provide access to knowledge that transforms lives.
Despite the rise of the internet, libraries remain irreplaceable for competitive exam preparation, academic success, and lifelong learning. A well-maintained library is a gift to future generations, preserving knowledge and making it accessible to all, regardless of social or economic background.
Our Contribution – NSS Volunteers as Guardians of Knowledge
Through Grandhalayala Deepti, NSS volunteers are taking direct action to:
✅ Restore damaged books, ensuring knowledge is not lost.
✅ Organize and clean libraries, making them welcoming learning spaces.
✅ Set up "Book Doctor" corners, supporting students preparing for competitive exams.
✅ Spread awareness about the importance of reading, beyond just digital media.
Recognizing Our Volunteers
As a token of appreciation for their dedication, we have gifted two TimeCredits to each NSS volunteer who participated. This is not just a reward—it’s a recognition of their contribution to shaping a knowledge-rich society.
A Call to Action
Burra Venkatesham rightly said:
"Even in the mobile phone age, libraries are crucial for success. Reviving them is not just about preserving books, but about investing in the future."
We urge all Time Bank members to support this movement, encourage reading habits, and contribute towards making libraries vibrant hubs of learning again. A single book can change a life—let’s ensure every book finds its reader!
Together, let’s restore, revive, and reimagine libraries for generations to come.
Note: The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of TimeBanks.Org, TimeBanks, or Timebank members.