The Untapped Potential of Indian Libraries: Lessons from Canada

I sit in a comfortable nook in one of Canada’s beautiful Niagara Public Libraries. My husband and I both work from home, and we occasionally come to this library branch for a change of scene from our apartment. Mornings here are peaceful, with the occasional sounds of pages turning, the soft beeping of a scanner in the distance, employees exchanging friendly banter, and someone like me typing away on their laptop.

Evenings and weekends are buzzy, especially when library programs are being held. We mostly accompany our daughter, who participates in fun programs like Play-Doh parties, No-Bake Cooking, Messy Art, Slime Making, and more. They have some great sessions for adults, too – painting classes, chess club, and crochet classes, to name a few. These activities rarely centre around books or reading. Instead, they’re designed to build a sense of community, engage the kids, and make the library a fun place for them. A love for books becomes purely coincidental. Isn’t that lovely?

Of course, we also visit to stock up on books. We can borrow up to 50 library materials per cardholder—books, magazines, DVDs, and more—for about 21 days, all at no cost.

Spending so much time at the libraries, I’ve befriended many wonderful staff members here. Countless times, I’ve told them how privileged I feel to be a patron and to have this sanctuary where my family and I love to spend our time. I once told one of them it felt like a dream come true to have access to any book I wanted, to spend hours surrounded by books, and to see my daughter naturally fall in love with reading. When I noticed a slightly puzzled expression on the staff member’s face, I explained why I felt this way. Back in India, where I come from, libraries are simply places to borrow books—nothing more (sometimes even less!).

The Privilege of Access: A Personal Comparison with India

In Canada, public library services might appear standard, but for someone like me who grew up in India, they feel like a luxury. Libraries played a role in my childhood, too—my parents, both book lovers, often took me along to public libraries to check out books. However, my experience then differed from what I found in Canada. In India, libraries worked, but they didn’t have the welcoming atmosphere and community feel I’ve discovered here. The books were old, the selections out-of-date, and the space didn’t seem designed to attract or include people.

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When I first stepped into a Canadian library, the contrast shocked me. Books in excellent shape filled the shelves, and the selection amazed me. But what blew me away was how much a single library card could do—from online learning tools and digital content to language courses and help with job hunting. I’ve used these resources to expand my knowledge and learn new abilities, all for free.
It never really occurred to me before, but as I sit here now, I can’t help but think of Indian libraries as forgotten treasures—rich in potential but buried under layers of neglect, waiting for someone to unearth them, polish their value, and share them with the community. It’s disheartening, but most public libraries in India aren’t even well-equipped for basic borrowing needs. Many of the books are worn and outdated, with new releases rarely making an appearance. The idea of accessing anything beyond books is virtually nonexistent.

Empowering Women Through Libraries

What strikes me most about Canadian libraries is how they double as community hubs, especially for women. Take the newcomer desk, for example—it’s a lifeline for immigrants like me. Settling into a new country can be overwhelming, but the library offers a sanctuary where you can find guidance on everything from local services to language skills. I never experienced this in India, where libraries often struggle with limited resources and a narrow focus.

Canadian libraries offer programs that are thoughtfully designed to meet the diverse needs of their communities. For women, these programs are far more than just a way to pass the time—they’re powerful tools for empowerment. Whether it’s a workshop on financial planning, a mental health session, or a career development course, the library provides resources that help women take control of their lives. These spaces go beyond just learning; they’re about building confidence, fostering connections, and creating opportunities for success.

Libraries and Nation-Building

Libraries are far more than just places to borrow books. It won’t be an exaggeration to say they are pillars of democracy and education. Libraries offer free information, support learning, and build community. They aid a nation’s development by empowering people with knowledge and skills. This, in turn, fosters informed, active citizens. They contribute to the country’s growth and prosperity.
As I get ready to wrap up my work here, I can’t help but reflect on how fortunate I am to have access to such a space. It’s not just a library; it’s a haven of knowledge, community, and empowerment. And I can only hope that one day, libraries in India will offer the same to the next generation, helping to build a stronger, more educated nation.