“Keep reading. It’s one of the most marvellous adventures that anyone can have…” This powerful quote by Lloyd Alexander.
On the occasion of World Book Day on 23rd April, I am going to share about the Library on the Wheel in my area and how they use Google Maps for their book distribution.
Photo 1 Caption: The Van carrying Books i.e. Library on the Wheels.
Gyan Library, (Gyan meaning Knowledge) the Free Kids Library on the Wheels in Borivali, Mumbai, is a unique mobile library that provides books, comics, and other reading materials to Kids in Borivali, Mumbai. Founded in 2021 by a non-profit organization and this library was created to bridge the gap between the haves and the have-nots by providing access to books and knowledge to those who cannot afford it.
Gyan Library, their set up and charges?
Photo 2 Caption: Collage of Photos showing inside set up of the library in the Van.
Gyan Library is a van that travels to the Borivali area of Mumbai, carrying a selection of books, magazines, and other reading materials. The services of the library are free of charge and the library also provides a safe space for people to read and discuss books. They just charge INR. 300/- which is refundable. And you will get 3 book for 2 weeks. And INR. 5/- per day is a late fee.
Photo 3 Caption: Collage of photos showing inside view of Library.
The books are colour coded as shown in the bottom photo in above collage. Red colour is for ages 0 to 3, blue for 3 to 5, Green for 5 to 7, Yellow for 7 to 9 and white for 9+. Also, each book has a Bar code. On scanning the bar code they allot the books under your account. They also provide reminder to return the books in case you get late to return the book.
How do they use Google Map for book distribution?
Photo 4 Caption: Collage of photos and screenshot about the Google map locations shared by Library for Book distribution.
The best thing is they use Google map to share their van location as Van roams around the Borivali area. Hence, they allotted fix time with its Van stops schedule as shown middle image in the above collage. And, we get notified in social media group about their daily location. Weekly the van roams around 30 locations in Borivali. Each 30 Google map locations of the van is shared as per afternoon and evening schedule, so that we can get to the exact location of the Van and make Book transaction. Such use of Google map for such a noble cause for kids is really appreciated. Currently, Gyan Library service is available only in Borivali but they are planning to expand all over Mumbai.
The Gyan Library on the Wheels also seeks to empower local communities by providing them with access to knowledge and literature. The library also works with local organizations to organize book-donation drives and literacy programs. Even an individuals can also donate books. I am going to donate some books of my son. Through its initiatives, Gyan Library aims to promote literacy and education among all communities of Mumbai, and to provide them with the necessary tools to lead better lives.
I am very happy to share here on Connect such a noble activity by Gyan Library and the best thing is they use Google maps extensively for their book distribution.
Do you know or want to share such noble activity in your area in which Google map is helpful? Please share here with us.
Happy World Book Day 
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Keep reading…!
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