In a remarkable testament to a lifelong passion for reading, Anke Gowda, a retired sugar factory worker from Karnataka, has established a library boasting an impressive collection of two million books. Situated in Pandavapura, this expansive repository of knowledge is open to the public at no cost, encouraging a culture of literacy and education. Gowda, who recently received the prestigious Padma Shri award for his contributions to literacy, has transformed his love for books into a valuable community resource.
A Humble Beginning
Born in a farming family, the 79-year-old Gowda’s fascination with books began in childhood. “I grew up in a village. We never got books to read, but I was always curious about them,” he shared, reflecting on his early experiences. This curiosity ignited a desire to collect books and foster a reading culture among others in his community. Despite the financial limitations of his upbringing, he found ways to acquire literature, often prioritising books over basic necessities.
As a young man, Gowda worked as a bus conductor but was encouraged by a former teacher to pursue further studies. He eventually earned a postgraduate degree in Kannada, the official language of Karnataka, while also working at the Pandavapura sugar factory. Throughout his 33-year career there, he dedicated a significant portion of his salary to purchasing books, amassing a staggering collection that would eventually outgrow his living space.
The Birth of a Community Library
Gowda’s library, which is characterised by its informal organisation—books are piled on shelves and floors—has become a haven for local students, educators, and book enthusiasts. Outside the main building, sacks containing an estimated 800,000 books await unpacking, a testament to the library’s continued growth through donations and Gowda’s own acquisitions. Regular visitors have become adept at navigating the seemingly chaotic collection, often relying on Gowda’s encyclopaedic knowledge of the library’s contents.
In a pivotal moment for his vision, Gowda received support from the late liquor baron Hari Khoday, who was astonished by Gowda’s extensive collection. “He came and saw the books for himself. Then he asked me what I needed. I told him I didn’t want any money for myself. My only request was that he build a library,” Gowda recounted. Khoday fulfilled this request, funding the construction of a large building that now houses a significant portion of Gowda’s collection.
An Inspirational Figure
The library has not only been a sanctuary for readers but also a source of inspiration for educators in the region. Ravi Bettaswami, an assistant professor, has utilised Gowda’s library as a resource for his students, while Shilpashree Haranu, a government college lecturer, praises Gowda’s unique ability to locate any book amidst the disarray. “He knows exactly where each book is and can tell you in an instant,” she stated, highlighting Gowda’s deep connection to the collection.
Despite his impressive achievements, Gowda remains humble about his legacy. He acknowledges the need for others to carry forward his vision as he contemplates the future of the library. “I have fulfilled my responsibility. But I don’t have the energy anymore. Maybe the government and the public can take over now? I have done my best, now it is up to others,” he said, signalling a desire for communal ownership of the library’s mission.
Why it Matters
Gowda’s extraordinary efforts to create a library that champions literacy in a rural area exemplify the profound impact one individual can have on a community. His dedication to making literature accessible to all has transformed the lives of many, encouraging a love for reading and learning in Karnataka. As the library continues to grow and inspire future generations, it stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of education and the collective responsibility to foster a culture of knowledge.
