About 12 years ago, some of us from Marathi community felt that we could try publishing a magazine in Marathi and encourage people to write and read Marathi articles. Several volunteers participated in this project and we were successful in creating magazine which was named: ASMITA. The writers, readers, composers, publishers were all from our community in this Triangle area.
However we realized that it was a daunting task and needed lot of time. We could not continue the project and after two years we decided to discontinue it. Our aim was to help all our community to use Marathi language effectively and frequently. If we read, write and speak the language, we remain fluent in that. Samarth Ramdas Swami advised us to do so and maintain our identity and culture. After terminating the project for magazine, we decided to create a library of Marathi books so that all people in the community, whether members of Mandal or not, would be able to read Marathi and maintain fluency. “Marathi Granth Prakalp” was an eventual outcome of this philosophy.
We needed help of Wake County Library system to keep the books in their custody and let people use them as often as they want. After considerable efforts, we were able to negotiate with them and received an approval.
So far, we have more than 300 books in the Library System. Some of the books were bought from the funds available from Asmita Project and several books were donated by the enthusiasts from the community. Dr Vijay Ghate has been cataloguing the books, labeling and doing necessary summaries as per Wake County’s rules.
Response from the community has been very nice. Several of you volunteered and donated new books. Several of you donated from your own collections. We are very thankful to all for being so considerate and generous.
Challenges
Although County libraries are very receptive to books in foreign languages, efforts from the community are required to keep it on-going.
- Getting books from India
The high shipping cost prohibit getting the books directly from India. So we have to rely on volunteers to get books for us as and when they can. Considering the luggage restrictions these days we are certainly very appreciative of those who bring the books.
- Books Usage
The library will not keep shelves occupied if the books are not used enough. We need to check out frequently and use them. If they are not used, the library may discard them. Please use the books as often as possible.
How can you help?
- We have people in Pune who have generously agreed to buy the books for us whenever needed. Many of us visit India frequently. If some of you could bring few books every time you visit, it would be very helpful. Many parents visit this area during spring season.If you could suggest them to bring few books every time, we will have great collection. Please consider this request. Please feel free to contact us for any information that you need.
- Suggest us Titles. You can check the existing titles here. If you feel there are any books we should have please let us know.
- Donate for the book pool. If you can’t get the books but would like to help, you can donate for Asmita Granth Prakalp. Your donation could be tax deductible.
Our Collection
So far our collection includes Novels, Short stories, Autobiographies, Biographies, Some poetry, Classics, Books on philosophy and Hindu religion, Travel and nature etc. We feel very happy that the response from our community has been very positive. Visiting parents are quite satisfied with our project and had been complimenting us. This has been possible because of encouragement from all of you.
Note
- All books become property of Wake County Library System.
- The donor is able to get tax deduction with proper documentation.
- All books need to be preferably new. If used, they should be in excellent condition. The library rejects books which are not in good condition.
- You may check library’s web site and click on “Marathi” You will be able to access the list. You may be able to access the list by clicking the name of the author also.
- All books must be in “Marathi language”. We urge you to select books of high quality.
