Readers of all ages explore titles at a free community library set up under the Book in Hand Campaign, as part of Delhi’s growing open-library movement. Photo Credit: The Better India
In an era where screens dominate attention and libraries often remain out of reach, a heartening initiative in the capital is reminding citizens of the quiet power of books. The Book in Hand Campaign, a grassroots effort launched in Delhi, is building a network of open, inclusive and entirely free libraries across the city.
Driven by the idea that books should be accessible to everyone—not just those who can afford them—this Delhi free library movement is creating safe, trust-based spaces that encourage reading, conversation and connection.
Free Libraries, No Strings Attached
The uniqueness of the Book in Hand Campaign lies in its simplicity. There are no registration forms, no security deposits, and no penalties for late returns. Instead, volunteers set up libraries in parks, neighbourhood corners, and student hubs, offering a rotating collection of books to anyone willing to read.
Borrowers are only asked to share basic details like their name and location. Remarkably, the return rate remains over 90%, highlighting the value of trust in public initiatives.
The libraries are open-air, mobile, and run entirely on donated books—most of which come from individuals, colleges and community groups who want to give their books a second life.
Bringing Books Where They Are Needed Most
The Book in Hand Campaign was started in 2023 by two young Delhiites, Anurag and Pratik, who were troubled by the sight of expensive books lying unused in homes while children in less privileged areas struggled to access even basic storybooks.
Their solution was simple but effective: take the books to the people. Starting with just 200 books, their mobile collection has now grown to more than 2,500 titles, covering Hindi and English literature, biographies, children’s fiction, and academic reads.
The campaign currently operates in areas like Vijay Nagar, Gandhi Vihar, and bastis like Sanjay Basti, with new sites emerging every few months. Each spot turns into a pop-up library on weekends—often the only library in that neighbourhood.
Reading as Resistance, Reading as Empowerment
For many, the initiative goes beyond simply reading books. It has become a symbol of reclaiming public space and making education more democratic.
Children who once saw books as unreachable are now waiting eagerly for the library days. Students rediscover forgotten reading habits. Elderly citizens find solace in leafing through old titles under shady trees. Volunteers report that some children who initially mocked books now act as helpers and even recommend titles to younger readers.
The emotional transformation seen in these communities is what makes this Delhi free library project truly special.
Overcoming the Challenges
Running open libraries in Delhi’s extreme weather is not easy. From summer heat to unexpected rain, volunteers often have to quickly dismantle setups or pack up soaked books. There’s also a growing demand for Hindi books, which remain harder to source than English ones.
Despite these hurdles, the campaign continues to grow thanks to volunteer efforts and steady donations. The community’s enthusiasm keeps the momentum alive, with many residents now offering their own homes as book collection points.
A Model for Other Cities
What began as a humble idea in Delhi now carries the potential to inspire similar efforts nationwide. The founders of the Book in Hand Campaign hope to see free library setups in every city where reading is becoming a forgotten habit and public access to books remains low.
The goal is simple: ensure that no child grows up thinking books are only for the privileged, and no adult feels they are too old to start reading again.
In today’s digital world, where attention spans are shrinking and meaningful connection feels increasingly rare, the Delhi free library movement is a breath of fresh air. It serves as a powerful reminder that access to books should never be a luxury—it should be a right, shared and celebrated by all.
