Hubballi Airport's Flybrary: A Pioneering Open Library Captivates Travelers in South India
Hubballi Airport has launched an innovative open library called Flybrary, marking the first such facility in South India. This unique initiative is drawing a steady stream of readers, with young passengers forming the majority of its daily visitors. Located in the Secured Hold Area, the Flybrary offers a refreshing alternative to screen time, allowing travelers to browse through a diverse collection of books.
Strong Response and Growing Collection
Airport director Rupesh Kumar Sripad revealed that the Flybrary, which opened on January 4, has received an overwhelmingly positive response. "Originally planned to be the first in an Indian airport, implementation delays made it the second nationally, but it proudly stands as the first of its kind in South India," he explained. Initially stocked with over 100 books in Kannada, English, and Hindi, the collection has now expanded to more than 250 titles, catering to a wide range of interests.
On average, about 200 out of 700 daily departing passengers visit the library, with 75% being youngsters. A feedback book placed at the Flybrary for the past few days has been filled with positive comments and suggestions from passengers-turned-readers, highlighting the initiative's success in promoting literacy and leisure.
Community Collaboration and Support
The idea for the Flybrary was pitched by Dr Sangamesh Handigi Sahitya Pratisthana, with its president, GB Goudappagol, noting the enthusiastic cooperation from authorities in providing books free of cost. The Rotary Club of Hubli Central also played a crucial role by supporting the initiative with 100 books and a rack.
Rotarian Rita Handa shared, "We had initial apprehensions about how busy travelers would respond, but we're delighted to see them adding productivity to their leisure time by stepping away from smartphone screens." The club wrote to the Airport Authority of India in 2023 and received permission by December 2025, ensuring a variety of books that appeal to children, women, youngsters, and senior citizens, covering topics from science and sports to biography and spirituality.
Widespread Impact and Future Prospects
The Flybrary's impact extends beyond Hubballi, with some passengers even noting down book details to purchase later. Interest has sparked from organizations in other Indian cities, who are seeking guidance on setting up similar libraries at their local airports. Many travelers have expressed gratitude in the feedback book, thanking the airport and stakeholders for encouraging reading habits.
Airport staff have also embraced the initiative, browsing books during their breaks. This community-driven effort not only enhances the passenger experience but also fosters a culture of reading, making Hubballi Airport a model for innovative public amenities in transportation hubs.
