The Retired Indian Factory Worker Who Built a Library of Two Million Books
Alphonse Vimulraj Anke Gowda, a retired sugar factory worker from the Mandya district of Karnataka, India, has cultivated an extraordinary collection that spans two million books, all available for free to anyone eager to read. His passion for books began in childhood and has blossomed into a remarkable legacy of literacy and learning.
A Lifelong Passion for Books
– Early Influences: Growing up in a farming family, books were rare luxuries. Anke Gowda’s curiosity drove him to gather and read as much as he could. I grew up in a village where books were scarce, but I always wanted to learn and gain knowledge, he shared with the BBC.
– Award Recognition: Last month, at the age of 79, he received the Padma Shri, a prestigious civilian honor from the Indian government, recognizing his significant contributions to promoting literacy.
The Library’s Unique Charm
– Location: The library is situated in Pandavapura, a quaint municipality in Karnataka. Unlike conventional libraries, it lacks formal organization. There’s no librarian, and books are often piled on shelves and the floor, creating a chaotic yet welcoming atmosphere.
– Growing Collection: With an estimated 800,000 additional books in sacks outside, even the collection is still growing through hands-on purchases and donations. Regular visitors, including students, parents, and teachers, navigate this labyrinth of literature with ease. “Even if they can’t find a book, they say Gowda can help them locate anything,” one frequent visitor noted.
A Journey Fueled by Dedication
– Early Life and Education: Anke Gowda balanced school and farm work as a child, often using his lunch money to buy books. His obsession grew when he discovered inspiring texts about Indian freedom fighters and spiritual leaders. “They were like candy,” he remarked.
– Career Development: After finishing school, he initially worked as a bus conductor. A chance encounter with a former teacher eventually motivated him to pursue higher education, leading to a postgraduate degree. He later joined the Pandavapura sugar factory, where he dedicated two-thirds of his salary to purchasing books.
From Vision to Reality
– Creation of the Library: Friends introduced him to Hari Khoday, a late liquor baron who, astonished by Gowda’s collection, agreed to help. “I told him I didn’t need money for myself, just a library,” Gowda explained. Khoday’s support facilitated the construction of a sprawling 15,800 sq ft (1,467 sq m) building, now the heart of Gowda’s vast library.
– Ongoing Support: Years down the line, a local lawmaker assisted in securing funding for two additional structures. Today, this library serves as a vital resource for students and educators alike.
Inspiring Others
– Impact on Community: Faculty members from across the state visit the library to inspire their students. Ravi Bettaswami, an assistant professor, credits Gowda’s library for shaping his own collection. “I use it for my studies and bring my students here to help organize the books,” he commented.
– Gowda’s Unique Approach: Despite the seemingly chaotic arrangement, local teachers affirm Gowda’s remarkable ability to locate any book instantly. When asked why he never hired a professional librarian, Gowda replied, No one ever suggested it to me.
The Future of the Library
As Anke Gowda reflects on his life’s work, he acknowledges the importance of continuing his legacy. “I have fulfilled my responsibility,” he states. “I may not have the energy anymore, but now it’s time for others to take over.”
In the tapestry of India’s literary culture, the library built by Alphonse Vimulraj Anke Gowda stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, where knowledge is freely shared, and the love for reading continues to flourish.