The Department of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, Karnataka has expanded its collaboration with the British Council to enhance learning resources across the state’s network of Gram Panchayat Arivu Kendras, which serve as rural community libraries.
As part of the new initiative, 60 additional Arivu Kendras across the state will host British Council Library Corners, bringing global educational resources closer to rural communities.
3,000 English Children’s Books and Digital Library Access
Under the expanded partnership, the centres will receive 3,000 English-language children’s books along with freemium access to the British Council’s digital library resources.
The initiative aims to help young readers in rural Karnataka connect with international learning materials and improve their language and reading skills.
Arivu Kendras as Community Learning Hubs
Karnataka currently operates 5,884 Gram Panchayat Arivu Kendras, which function as community knowledge centres offering:
- Free access to books and learning materials
- Computers and internet facilities
- Educational resources for students and adults
These centres collectively serve more than 50 lakh children and adults across the state.
Karnataka First State to Partner with British Council at This Scale
Officials said Karnataka has become the first state in India to collaborate with the British Council on such a large scale to strengthen rural libraries and promote reading culture.
The initiative builds on the success of earlier collaboration between the state government and the British Council.
Librarians Play Key Role in Rural Learning
The Arivu Kendras operate eight hours a day, including weekends, ensuring consistent access to learning resources for local communities.
Authorities highlighted the important role played by librarians, whose dedicated efforts help maintain these centres as vibrant learning spaces and encourage the habit of reading and curiosity among rural residents.
The expanded partnership is expected to further strengthen educational opportunities and digital learning access in rural Karnataka, bridging the gap between local communities and global knowledge resources.
