In a world dominated by digital screens, the simple pleasure of flipping through the pages of a book is slowly fading. Yet, for those who love reading, books are more than just words on paper—they are an escape, a source of inspiration, and a gateway to different worlds.
For Heet Doshi, a 20-year-old BCom Honours student at GLS University, books have always been a constant companion. “Reading has always been my escape,” he says. Om Thakkar, 19, a BBA student at Gujarat University, shares the same passion. “Books are like windows to new worlds. They shape how we think and see things differently. I wanted to encourage more people to read so they, too, could experience that magic.”
Creating a Community for Book Lovers
In 2023, Heet and Om realized something was missing. While they both loved books, they struggled to find people outside their close circles who shared the same enthusiasm for discussing literature. That’s when an idea struck them—why not create a space where book lovers could come together?
And so, ‘Your Reading Circle’ was born in September 2023. What began as casual meetups in public spaces soon grew into a thriving community of readers. To spread the love for books, they started a WhatsApp group, hosted reading events, and encouraged discussions on literature and storytelling.
From Book Club to Mini-Libraries
As their community flourished, the duo came across something inspiring—the concept of mini-libraries in Perumkulam, Kerala, where multiple public libraries were set up just a few hundred meters apart to promote reading. The idea clicked instantly, and they knew they wanted to bring it to Ahmedabad.
The journey, however, wasn’t easy. “We didn’t know where to start—who to approach for permissions, how to build the book boxes, or where to place them,” recalls Heet. Determined to make it happen, they did their research, navigated government bureaucracy, and slowly pieced together a plan.
After weeks of securing approvals, gathering books, and finalizing logistics, their first mini-library came to life at Parimal Garden on June 23, 2024. The location was strategic—central, accessible, and popular among students, families, and elderly visitors alike.
Challenges and Triumphs
Setting up a mini-library required more than just collecting books. They needed funds, skilled fabricators, and a sustainable plan for maintenance. “We started by using books from our own collections and generous donations from our community,” Om explains.
The biggest challenge? Keeping the libraries in good condition. “A library isn’t just about setting up shelves—it needs care and upkeep,” Heet points out. To ensure this, they built a network of 10 volunteers, with each mini-library assigned two caretakers who check on the books and keep things organized.
“We even maintain a spreadsheet to track the books,” Om adds. “Each library starts with about 25 books, and when some get misplaced or damaged, we replenish them with fresh donations.”
A Growing Movement
The response has been overwhelming. What started as a small initiative has grown into a city-wide effort to encourage reading. “We see people engaging with books instead of scrolling on their phones, and that’s an amazing feeling,” says Heet.
The libraries have become more than just places to borrow books; they’ve turned into hubs of conversation and connection. Tanisha Patel, a volunteer and library coordinator, shares her story: “At first, I was hesitant to take up this role. I wasn’t sure I could keep up with the commitment. But once I joined, I rediscovered my love for books and found joy in maintaining the libraries.”
One of the most touching moments came when Parth Jala, a close friend of Heet’s, funded a mini-library at Law Garden in honor of his late grandmother. “She never learned to read, but she always wanted to know about the books I was reading,” Parth shared at the library’s inauguration. “This is my way of giving others the access to books that she never had.”
Expanding the Reach
Since launching their first library, Heet and Om have installed four more in key locations across Ahmedabad—Prahladnagar Garden, Law Garden, Gotila Garden, and Monte Carlo Oxygen Park. Each one is free and open to the public, creating shared spaces for book lovers from all walks of life.
The impact has gone beyond city limits. Readers from different parts of India—and even places like Australia, Canada, and the US—have reached out to express their appreciation for the initiative.
Akhil, a 21-year-old student, shares how these libraries transformed his daily routine. “Earlier, I’d just scroll through my phone while waiting for friends at the park. Now, I pick up a book, and before I know it, I’m completely lost in it. It’s made me fall in love with reading again.”
The Road Ahead: More Libraries, More Readers
The journey is far from over. “Our goal is to set up at least seven more mini-libraries, including one at Kankaria Lake,” says Heet. “Eventually, we want to take this concept to villages and schools where access to books is even more limited.”
So far, their work has reached over 2,000 people, inspiring more than 1,000 individuals to rediscover the joy of reading. The initiative runs entirely on donations—while they never charge for books, they rely on contributions to build more libraries and keep them stocked.
Support has poured in from various quarters. Groups like Bookitup and Keetabikeeda regularly donate books, while well-known figures like RJ Dhvanit and writer Sanjeev Bhatia have also lent their support. “Sanjeev Bhatia even donated 20 books to help expand our collection,” Om shares.
“As we walk through parks and see people engrossed in a book, it feels like a small victory,” Heet says. “This is just the beginning. We dream of bringing mini-libraries to every corner of Gujarat.”
Through their dedication and passion, Heet and Om are proving that small ideas can lead to big changes. One book at a time, they are making literature accessible to all—turning parks into places of discovery, learning, and imagination.