Introduction

In the village of Haralahalli near Mysuru, Karnataka, a remarkable story unfolds. A 75-year-old man, Anke Gowda, has transformed his passion for books into a monumental gift to the nation. By selling his own house, he established India's largest private library, housing over 2 million books and offering free access to all. This article explores his inspiring journey, the unique features of his library, and the profound impact on the community.

The Genesis of a Dream

Anke Gowda's love for books began at the age of 20 while working as a bus conductor. With limited access to literature in his early years, he developed a deep appreciation for the written word. Later, while pursuing a Master's degree in Kannada literature and working at a sugar factory for about three decades, he spent nearly 80% of his salary on purchasing books. Demonstrating remarkable commitment, he chose to part with his own home in Mysuru to support the growth and expansion of his library. Known as Pustaka Mane (House of Books), it stands as a treasure trove of knowledge in Haralahalli village.

A Monumental Collection Open to All

Anke Gowda's library comprises books in more than 20 Indian and foreign languages, featuring genres from literature, science, technology, mythology, philosophy, to rare historical manuscripts dating back to 1832. Among his holdings are about half a million rare foreign books and some 5,000 dictionaries in various languages, making his collection one of exceptional value. Open to everyone without membership or fees, the library attracts researchers, students, civil service aspirants, and Supreme Court judges.

Challenges and the Path Forward

Despite housing one of the largest book collections in India, Anke Gowda faces pressing challenges such as lack of sufficient staff to catalogue the vast inventory, with more than 250 bags of books still awaiting sorting. The foundation hopes to acquire funding and support for digitisation to preserve these physical books against natural deterioration. Anke's vision extends beyond mere collection; he aspires to cultivate a hub of learning and scholarship that democratises knowledge and nurtures curiosity and growth in all who visit.

FAQs

Q1: Where is Anke Gowda's library located?

A1: Anke Gowda's library, known as Pustaka Mane, is located in Haralahalli village near Mysuru, Karnataka.

Q2: Is there any fee to access the library?

A2: No, the library offers free access to all visitors without any membership or admission charges.

Q3: What types of books are available in the library?

A3: The library houses over 2 million books across various genres, including literature, science, technology, mythology, philosophy, and rare historical manuscripts.

Q4: Who can benefit from the library?

A4: The library serves a diverse group of individuals, including researchers, students, civil service aspirants, and even Supreme Court judges.

Q5: How can one support the library?

A5: Support can be extended through donations, volunteering, or assisting in the cataloging and digitization efforts.

Conclusion

Anke Gowda's story is a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and generosity. In a world where digital media often overshadows traditional reading, his dedication to assembling and sharing knowledge stands as a beacon of inclusiveness, education, and community spirit. His library not only preserves literature but also fosters a culture of self-education and research, making knowledge accessible to all.

Neutral Opinion

Anke Gowda's endeavor is both inspiring and thought-provoking. While his dedication to creating a free-access library is commendable, it also raises questions about the sustainability and management of such a vast collection. The challenges of cataloging, preserving, and maintaining over 2 million books are significant. This situation underscores the need for structured support and collaboration between individuals, communities, and institutions to ensure that such noble initiatives can thrive and continue to benefit society at large.