The branch Library on Marina Beach will soon be opened to the public with new facilities such as a play area, outdoor seating and an ocean station. 

The 500 sq.ft. library occupies a small space next to the Marina Swimming Pool. “It required new basic amenities since it was built in the 2000. The aim is to raise awareness of the library in the vicinity,” said an official of the Directorate of Public Libraries. 

The department had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Environmentalist Foundation of India (EFI) to give the seaside library a facelift. 

While the Public Works Department takes care of the infrastructure facilities, EFI is the knowledge partner. They are beautifying the compound wall with pictures of marine animals, and there will be a dedicated space for ocean life in the library.

Speaking about the initiative, EFI founder Arun Krishnamurthy said, “We are converting the space into an ocean station, which will be a marine repository.” 

They have planned a ‘Bay of Bengal corner’ with information about the coast, an ‘Olive Ridley corner’ dedicated to sea turtles, a children’s play area and a quiz ‘n’ cross learning corner. 

With over 1,500 books, the library will also showcase a map of unique books housed in public libraries across the city. “At least 20 people come to the library, but we hope that the numbers would increase with the upgrade. The colourful paintings on the compound walls has attracted a lot of attention,” added another official from the department.