Shodhak Library: We have shifted!

Expect more welcoming interiors and a bunch of new, interesting activities for children.

After 2 years of operating the library out of a small space in Phule Nagar, Powai, we at Navnirmiti Eduquality Foundation have relocated the community library to a new space, with more enticing décor and more space for children. The new space was inaugurated on 30 October 2024 by Dr. Vivek Monteiro, a scientist, reformer and an educationist, with over four decades of contribution towards achieving quality education for all children, with fondness for children and the invariable desire to answer questions that pop up in these untethered tiny minds.

• An event to connect with children

The organisation of the event was a flurry of activities that culminated into one that marked not only the relocation of our community library but also evoked the thirst for knowledge and curiosity among children. Renowned illustrator, animator and short film Director Prof. Shilpa Ranade honoured us with her august presence at the inauguration ceremony. She effortlessly connected with the children through her encouraging speech and contributed some of her books.

Ms. Jyoti Francis, CEO, Navnirmiti Eduquality Foundation and one of the Founding Members of this library project presented the vision of our organisation for the project. Dr. Nandkumar Jadhav, visionary Director, Navnirmiti Eduquality Foundation in bringing the idea to life through his relentless efforts and contribution. He threw light on the efforts that went into bringing this project to fruition and its future road map.

Also present were Ms. Sugandhi Francis, Trustee of Navnirmimti Trust, a reformer and social worker for women’s rights, and some like-minded supporters of NEF like Mr. Kishor Jadhav, an enthusiastic teacher from Adarsh Vidyalaya, Mr. Rupesh Gesota, an innovative teacher and passionate educationist dedicated to the upliftment of children and Mr. Mahendra Ingle, a social entrepreneur. Mr. Mahendra Ingle nudged us into the possibilities and opportunities in life to mould children into becoming financially independent.

• A New Space. A New Experience. A New Perspective.

Our new space is equipped with an upper-deck reading corner, a story-telling settee, a colourful book rack and fencing to ensure safety which was possible through the collective efforts and contribution of all the NEF team members. Expect mauve interiors to brighten up the space and a burst of colours in the form of animated characters from children’s storybooks imagined onto the walls by fine arts virtuoso Ms. Pooja Lahane and her talented assistant.

We will be organising some interesting events and activities from time to time at Shodhak, including Storytelling with puppets or drama, interactive games, Read Aloud sessions, Audio-Visuals sessions of inspiring stories and information and Poetry recitation.

• Library Timings:

• FLN library class: 9.30 to 11.30 a.m. (Monday to Thursday)

• Library class:

• Junior group (1st to 5th std)
• 1.30 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. (Monday to Thursday)
• Senior group (6th to 10th std)
• 6.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. (Monday to Thursday)
• Saturday: 4.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. (community engagement and both batches included)
• The library remains closed on Friday and Sunday.

• Upcoming Event

Children’s Day celebration on 14 November 2024, with games, book activities, quizzes and competitions and loads of fun!