KBA launches Manegondu Library initiative

Madikeri: The Kannada Book Authority has launched an initiative called ‘Manegondu Library' (One Library for Every Home) to counter the growing concern among writers and publishers that Kannada books are losing readers and buyers.Speaking after launching the initiative, authority chairperson Manasa said the programme is based on the idea that books should be a household culture and a source of knowledge, not merely a commodity. The project aims to build a reading culture, especially among youth, by encouraging families to set up a home library, much like a dedicated space in the house. He said that special-day programmes will be held in the names of prominent writers and poets, including Jnanpith awardees, to recognise their contributions to Kannada literature.
KBA plans to establish libraries in 1 lakh homes across the state and wants every household—including those of public representatives and film actors—to maintain a collection of books. Ten awareness members are being appointed in each district. KBA also proposes four annual awards, one for each revenue division, to be presented by the chief minister. The planned awards include the Nanjangud Tirumalamba Award (recognising the first woman publisher in Kannada), HaMa Nayaka Award (for an outstanding Kannada book lover), Kalayogi PR Thippeswamy Award (honouring a book lover who also served as president of the Lalitha Kala Academy), and Galaganatha Award (for a notable patron of books).Former president of the Kodagu Zilla Kannada Sahitya Parishad, TP Ramesh, noted that social media has reduced reading of books in recent times and stressed the need to pass reading habits to the next generation.Kodagu Zilla Kannada Sahitya Parishad president MP Keshava Kamath pledged support for the home-library effort and said a children's poetry festival will be organised to cultivate literary interest. He added that Kannada books are being given as mementoes at Parishad programmes.