New Delhi: In a move that has thrilled book lovers across the city, Kolkata's oldest bookshop, "Chitralekha Book House," has announced plans to transform a portion of its premises into a free library. The iconic bookstore, located in the heart of the College Street area, has been a cultural landmark for generations of readers since its establishment in 1948.

The decision to create a free library within the bookshop was inspired by the owner's passion for promoting literacy and fostering a love for books in the community. The new library section, spanning two floors, will be open to the public, allowing readers of all ages to access a wide range of books across various genres.

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Mr. Siddharth Roy, the proprietor of Chitralekha Book House, expressed his excitement about the upcoming transformation, stating, "Books are a gateway to knowledge and imagination. By creating a free library, we aim to provide access to literature and promote reading among people from all walks of life. It's our way of giving back to the community that has supported us for decades."

The free library will house a diverse collection of books, including classics, contemporary literature, children's books, non-fiction, and regional literature. Additionally, the space will feature comfortable seating areas and reading corners, creating a tranquil environment for visitors to immerse themselves in the world of books.

Recognizing the importance of accessibility, the library will be equipped with modern amenities such as wheelchair ramps, braille books for the visually impaired, and large print editions for readers with visual challenges. The bookstore's management has also committed to regularly updating the collection to ensure a steady supply of fresh reading material.

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The news of the upcoming free library has sparked enthusiasm among both regular customers and residents of Kolkata. Many see it as a crucial step towards revitalizing the reading culture in the city and fostering a sense of community among book lovers.

Local resident Aparna Banerjee expressed her delight, stating, "I have been visiting Chitralekha Book House since my childhood, and it's amazing to see them take this initiative. The free library will make books accessible to everyone, irrespective of their financial background. It's a wonderful gift to the city."

To ensure the success of the project, Chitralekha Book House has also reached out to local schools and educational institutions, inviting them to organize reading sessions and literary events within the library space. This collaborative effort aims to engage children and young adults in reading activities and encourage them to explore different genres and authors.

The transformation of Chitralekha Book House into a part-bookstore, part-free library is scheduled to be completed by the end of August. The management plans to celebrate the occasion with an inaugural event, inviting renowned authors, intellectuals, and avid readers from across the city.

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As Kolkata's oldest bookshop adapts to the changing times, it continues to embody the spirit of intellectualism and literary pursuits that the city is known for. The creation of the free library not only preserves its legacy but also reinforces its commitment to promoting a reading culture that transcends barriers and inspires generations to come.

About Chitralekha Book House: Chitralekha Book House, established in 1948, is Kolkata's oldest bookshop. Located in the College Street area, it has been a haven for book lovers, offering a wide range of books across genres. With the upcoming transformation into a part-bookstore, part-free library, Chitralekha Book House aims to promote literacy and make books accessible to all.