Kolkata (West Bengal): When it comes to literature and reading, Kolkata, "the city of joy," is always ahead in floating unique and first of its kind ideas. The unique tram library was one of such unique and innovative ideas. And now the city is all set to showcase its first floating library.
WBTC in collaboration with Apeejay Anand Children's Library has set up this children's boat library - The Kolkata Young Reader's Boat Library The idea has been mooted to popularize the habit of book reading while cruising on the Hooghly river. The venture comes following an initiative from the West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) that has come up with such a unique initiative. The floating library would be open for public from January 28.
WBTC in collaboration with Apeejay Anand Children's Library has set up this children's boat library - The Kolkata Young Reader's Boat Library. Right now the boat has around 500 books on the shelves. However, the managing director of WBTC, Ranjanvir Singh Kapoor informed them that they would also add 500 additional books for a trip.
The library on water is decorated with artwork and reading books from various genres. Oxford Book Store has curated the books to allure young minds. The book library would eventually have events like book reading sessions, poetry reading sessions and book launches among others.
Deputy chairman of WBTC, Swarnakamal Saha said that this is dedicated to the kids. The run of the vessel is from Millennium Park jetty till Belur jetty. The boat would operate commercially from Monday to Friday. "It would have three trips a day at 11 AM, 1.15 PM and 3.30 PM. Surfing through the pages of the books the reader can also enjoy light music on board and munch on the snacks that would be made available at the tuck shop. The boat would also have a free wi-fi facility," he said.
The cost of a ride is Rs. 100 for an adult and Rs 50 for children under the age of 18. If the entire boat is hired by schools or educational institutions then the charge would be Rs 4000 for one trip. Right now the facility of buying or borrowing books from the vessel is not there.
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