In a heartwarming move to promote literacy, a primary school in Karnataka's Kodagu district has transformed birthday celebrations into an opportunity to build a library and a lifelong love for reading. The Lions Nursery and Primary School in Gonikoppal has implemented a unique scheme where students donate a book on their birthday, shifting focus from sugary treats to the enduring gift of knowledge.
From Sweet Treats to Sweet Reads: The Birth of an Idea
The innovative programme, named 'Huttu Habbakkondu Pusthaka Kanike', was introduced by the school's head teacher, Taj Thangamma. Observing the common practice of children distributing chocolates to classmates on their birthdays, Thangamma envisioned a more meaningful alternative. She proposed that students celebrating their birthdays donate a book to the school library instead.
"We consider the books given by birthday boys or girls as precious gifts," explained Head Teacher Taj Thangamma. "This will help us cultivate the reading habit among the future generations. Gifting books also enhances the beauty of book culture." The scheme has received an enthusiastic response from both students and their parents, who have readily embraced this novel concept.
How the Book Gifting Scheme Works
The process is simple yet impactful. Now, when a student's birthday arrives, parents send a book to the school rather than a box of chocolates. The head teacher personally accepts the book with affection, turning the moment into a special ceremony. She captures a photograph of the student presenting the book, which is then shared on the school's WhatsApp groups.
This public acknowledgment serves a dual purpose: it honours the contributing child and inspires other students and their families to participate. The shared images celebrate the act of giving and subtly encourage everyone to embrace this new book-centric culture, making reading a communal and celebrated activity.
Cultivating a Legacy of Readers
The long-term implications of this quiet experiment are profound. Each donated book directly enriches the school's library, providing more resources for all children. More importantly, it instills a value system where books are seen as gifts of high esteem and reading is associated with celebration and recognition.
By integrating this practice into the fabric of school traditions, Lions Nursery and Primary School is not just collecting books; it is actively building a community of young readers. The initiative, gaining steady traction in Madikeri's Gonikoppal, demonstrates how small, consistent changes in tradition can foster significant positive habits, potentially shaping the literary landscape for future generations in the region.
