Sun Feb 09 14:56:21 UTC 2025: ## Rajapalayam Opens India’s First Comic Library, Combating Screen Time and Promoting Literacy
**Rajapalayam, Tamil Nadu, February 9, 2025** – A novel initiative aimed at combating children’s excessive screen time and fostering a love of reading has launched in Rajapalayam, Tamil Nadu. The district administration inaugurated what is believed to be India’s first dedicated comic library, a significant addition to the existing Women and Children’s Library.
The new library, housed in a large hall, boasts a collection of over 800 comic books in English and Tamil, including both classic and contemporary titles such as “Ponniyin Selvan” and “Irumbu Kai Mayavi.” The collection also incorporates educational comics covering history, mathematics, and science. Furthermore, four computers loaded with 40,000 digital comics are available for children’s use.
The initiative, spearheaded by Revenue Minister K.K.S.S.R. Ramachandran and Virudhunagar Collector V.P. Jeyaseelan, addresses growing concerns about children’s eye health and mental well-being, often linked to excessive mobile phone use. Collector Jeyaseelan stated that the library aims to provide a fun and engaging alternative to screens, while also encouraging reading habits.
The colorful setting, featuring murals of popular comic characters, has already proven a hit with young visitors. Reader’s Circle president Manju Ranganathan reported that children were reluctant to leave the library upon their first visit. The library’s proximity to the women’s library allows mothers to supervise their children while also enjoying their own reading time.
The success of this pilot project has prompted plans to expand the comic library concept to other libraries in the district. The initiative is seen as a significant step towards promoting literacy and healthy leisure activities among children.
First Piper 