Newly revamped Connemara Library offers better spaces for book lovers, researchers

A space meant to store records has now become an interesting science park with STEM activities including a gyroscope, large-sized periodic table, and a touch screen teaching the human anatomy, at the Connemara Public Library, located inside the Government Museum campus in Egmore.

Thanks to judicious use of existing space, the School Education Department and the Public Works Department have been able to add more sections inside the art-deco building that was recently restored at a cost of ₹4.58 crore.

The own-book reading section, that allows people to bring their own books to read, and a civil service section, where students preparing for competitive exams can read in peace, are attractions for college students. Aravindan, a student preparing for his chartered accountancy exam, said he liked the ambience.

The peppy children’s books section features interesting decor that young children will find comfortable for curling up with a book from the wide variety on display in the stacks. At the science park, children can learn how fibre optic cables work, check if their pronunciation in Tamil and English is correct, and solve mind puzzles.

“The human anatomy exhibit is a huge hit with the children,” said a staff at the section. The building also has a new conference hall, a new elevator, and toilets that have been spruced up.

The heritage section located at the back, which has government records, census records, and rate books, continues to attract research scholars. D. Sweetie, doing her thesis in history, said she came to the library looking for a particular book on Christian Missionaries in Madras from 1835 till the 1900s and she found it there. “I am only afraid I might damage the book by turning the pages. This section has so many rare books,” she said.

Additional Chief Secretary, School Education Department, B. Chandra Mohan said that this iconic heritage library has been thoughtfully reimagined as a vibrant centre of learning and discovery for every kind of reader — from passionate book lovers and serious researchers to children who come to learn, enjoy, and play while exploring knowledge.

“We are seeing a steady rise in footfall with school children visiting on field trips, students from different educational institutions coming to study, aspirants preparing for civil services and other competitive exams.

With the new STEM section fostering scientific temper and curiosity, and the serene campus with its large trees and granite benches encouraging reflection and intellectual discussions, the library today stands transformed into a true hub of learning, discovery, and intellectual growth,” he said.