In Sitapur, a local library shortens the distance to opportunity

Anuj Vishwakarma is from Damodarpur in Sitapur. runs a computer coaching institute that has now completed nine years. Three months ago, he added a small but carefully designed library to the same premises, responding to what he had long observed among his students: the absence of a quiet, accessible study space in the area.

For nearly a decade, Vishwakarma had worked closely with school and competitive exam aspirants, watching their routines and constraints. Many travelled 12 to 13 kilometres daily in search of a library, spending time and money that could otherwise be invested in study. “Children used to travel far just to find a place to sit and study,” he recalls. The idea of opening a local library began to take shape about a year and a half ago, particularly after a few students directly asked for such a facility.

Before 2021, he says, there was no culture of independent library study in the locality. His aim was to create a space that felt purposeful and disciplined from the moment a student walked in. The library offers Wi-Fi, lighting, drinking water, and a quiet environment, along with the sharing of PDF materials through study groups. The focus, however, remains simple: a structured place where students can study without distraction.

From coaching centre to full library

The library opened on 21st August and, within a week, all seats were occupied. Around 60 students now use the space daily, in addition to those enrolled in the computer coaching classes. Students range from Class 10 and 12 learners to those preparing for competitive examinations.

The fee structure, Vishwakarma explains, reflects the facilities provided. A full-day plan is priced at Rs 700 per month, while a half-day option costs Rs 600. He notes that library fees vary widely in different towns and cities, depending on infrastructure and demand, but his intention was to keep it accessible for the local community.

His own student years were marked by limited facilities. There were coaching options, but no dedicated libraries nearby. That absence shapes how he now approaches his work, with a practical understanding of what local students require.

To expand and stabilise his venture, Vishwakarma sought financial support through the Mukhyamantri Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan (CM YUVA) Yojana after learning about it from acquaintances who had already applied. Documentation delays slowed his own approval, but he eventually secured the loan. He believes CM YUVA Yojana is particularly suited for those already running a business and capable of managing repayments. “The loan amount does not matter; what matters is how much effort you are willing to put in,” he says.

With operations steady and demand consistent, Vishwakarma is now considering opening additional branches in the future. For now, he remains focused on maintaining the discipline and reliability that helped his institute grow from a small coaching class into a local study hub, reflecting how incremental efforts can gradually turn gaps in infrastructure into workable solutions.