Tambaram corpn to open new library & study centre by June

Chennai: Tambaram corporation will open a ‘Mudhalvar Padaipagam' (study centre) at Perungalathur's ward 56 and knowledge centre at Thiruneermalai's ward 31 by June, to improve access to education resources for students preparing for competitive examinations. The facilities, built at a total cost of 4.5 crore, are expected to benefit at least 2,000 residents from surrounding areas.The multi-storey Mudhalvar Padaipagam was built for about 2.5 crore across 536sqm. It will include a general reading area, preparatory area, computer zone, training centre, indoor and outdoor learning spaces, reception space, movable study areas and bookshelves, along with CCTV surveillance, Wi-Fi connectivity and two-wheeler parking.The 2 crore knowledge centre, spread over 640sqm, will feature a reading room, special reading area, activity area for children, audio-visual room and computer room, along with Wi-Fi, CCTV cameras, lift access, RO drinking water facility and parking space.For 28-year-old Vignesh, a resident of Thiruneermalai preparing for the UPSC exam, the centres would significantly reduce his daily travel. "For the past two years, I have been travelling nearly 40km each day to Anna Centenary Library to study," he said.S Pallavi, a college student from West Tambaram, said she earlier had to travel to Pallavaram to access a library after the old local facility became dilapidated. "The new centres will be useful for students and residents," she said.Tambaram corporation commissioner S Balachander said, "There are 20 libraries and one knowledge and study centre under the corporation. Proposals are being made to build more such facilities," he said.