In a bid to promote reading habits and enhance access to literature, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has introduced “Reading Zones” in parks across north Chennai. These zones, launched on a pilot basis in ten parks, aim to provide residents, especially those in slum areas, with easy access to books. Residents can freely browse a variety of genres including short stories, biographies, and novels, fostering a culture of reading within the community.
To ensure sustainability, users are encouraged to maintain the books and provide feedback on their reading experiences. Additionally, the initiative welcomes book donations, further enriching the reading resources available in these public spaces. With plans for expansion and community engagement activities like book discussions, the Reading Zones initiative strives to cultivate a vibrant culture of literacy and learning in Chennai’s neighborhoods.