Mumbai: An institution over 180 years old, the People’s Free Reading Room and Library, has evolved from a repository of rare collections to a vibrant study hall, particularly for students. Established in 1845 and later renamed, this South Mumbai library is a testament to the enduring value of public spaces dedicated to learning and literature.
A Legacy of Rare Collections
The People’s Free Reading Room and Library, located opposite Big Metro Cinemas in Dhobi Talao, has a rich history dating back to 1845. Originally set up by Damodur Gordhandas Sookhdwala, it was renamed in 1891. Over the decades, it has curated an impressive collection that spans various genres, including classics, European philosophy, and a significant archive of magazines, novels, and newspapers from the British era. Among its notable holdings are rare collections, including bound volumes of ‘Punch’ magazine and literary works such as Ferdowsi’s Shahnama.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that the library houses a diverse range of literature, from novels by well-known authors to philosophical texts. Its shelves are divided into sections for Indian fiction, foreign fiction, Parsi literature, and European philosophy, alongside a dedicated newspaper reading section. The library’s collection, once numbering around 75,000 books, was later reduced to approximately 18,000 after a fire in the Fort building in 2000 led to the permanent relocation of its collection to the Framji Cawasji Institute in Dhobi Talao, where it operates today.
A Hub for Students
In contemporary times, the library’s ground floor is frequently occupied by students utilizing its reading rooms. Recognizing the needs of its younger patrons, the library offers a ‘Student Corner’ with affordable monthly, quarterly, and six-month membership options. This focus on students highlights the library’s adaptability and its commitment to serving as an accessible educational resource in a bustling metropolis.
The library has historically provided free access to its collection of 18,000 books, which primarily consist of fiction, with many dating back a century. While a ‘students’ corner’ generates some income through monthly fees, the library, as a free institution, is not permitted to charge general members. This financial model has presented challenges, leading to past appeals for public financial assistance to prevent its closure.
Enduring Charm and Community Spirit
Beyond its literary holdings, the People’s Free Reading Room and Library retains an old-world charm, characterized by its Victorian architecture, antique wooden furniture, and tiled floors. These elements contribute to a unique atmosphere that continues to attract readers. The library is a place by and for the ‘people,’ embodying a spirit of collective community effort and philanthropic support, as evidenced by commemorative inscriptions and marble tablets dedicated by past subscribers and patrons.
The library’s commitment to providing a quiet and peaceful environment for study has been a crucial aspect of its appeal, especially during examination periods when its reading halls are often packed. This role as a sanctuary for focused learning underscores its ongoing relevance in an increasingly digital world.
The People’s Free Reading Room and Library offers various membership options. For students, a monthly fee of INR 200, a quarterly fee of INR 500, or a six-month fee of INR 1,000 provides access. For non-students, a lifetime membership is available for INR 1,500, which includes a refundable deposit of INR 1,000 and a pass fee of INR 500. Lifetime magazine reading access is available for INR 500. Borrowing times for books are typically between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., with a maximum borrowing period of 15 days.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
