The founder-members of the Kalam Library Project have plans to open libraries all over the State. As part of the plan and to encourage the people to participate in the initiative, they have decided to launch the ‘Gift a library’ scheme.

Under the scheme, any individual or a corporate house can donate an amount (Rs. 7000 to 12,000) to set up a library. The money would be used to buy books and shelves for the library. “The library would be name after the donor or the corporate house,” says Karthik Vishwanathan, state coordinator for Kalam Library.

Currently there are 18 libraries that are fully functional across the country under the scheme. “Eight libraries are ready to be inaugurated in Theni district alone. Gold Farm sponsored three and another 10 have been set up under the scheme. Schools have been identified in rural areas.

We want to open more such libraries across the country,” Karthik adds.

The idea to start libraries in the name of the former president took off a few months after is death when a group of followers got together and decided to carry on with his legacy.

Right now three libraries are functioning in Coimbatore alone- at SRP Ammani Ammal Girls High School, Corporation Higher Secondary Schools in Peelamedu and Ramakrishnapuram.