Declining readers, shrinking libraries: Only 47 public libraries per 10 lakh people in Gujarat

Gujarat is home to 3,464 government-run public libraries. However, the state does not figure among the top five states in the country with the highest number of public libraries. In terms of library availability, Gujarat fares even worse, with just 47 public libraries for every 10 lakh people.

Every year, September 6 is observed as National Read a Book Day, encouraging people to take time out of their day to enjoy reading. Maharashtra leads the country with the most public libraries (12,191), followed by Kerala (8,415), Karnataka (6,798), West Bengal (5,251), and Tamil Nadu (4,622).

In Gujarat, public libraries play a vital role in preserving the reading culture and ensuring access to knowledge for everyone. Yet, recent data shows that despite the increase in the total number of libraries, per capita availability remains poor compared to several other states. 

With an estimated population of 73.5 million in 2025, Gujarat has only 47 public libraries per 10 lakh people, whereas Kerala has 233 and Maharashtra 95 per 10 lakh people.

Currently, Gujarat has 197 functional government libraries, which include 33 district libraries, 150 taluka libraries, as well as reference libraries, mobile libraries, the State Central Book Reserve, the State Art Library, and women’s libraries. According to government claims, more than 500 readers visit reference libraries daily, while district libraries record over 150 visitors a day.

Moreover, district libraries that provide reading facilities see over 250 daily readers, while taluka libraries are visited by more than 100 readers each day.

The digital age and decline of book lovers

In their leisure hours, more people now turn to short reels on their mobile phones than to books. Psychologists warn that excessive phone use is shrinking attention spans; even when someone begins reading, they often find their hand reaching back for the phone within minutes. Meanwhile, many book lovers increasingly favour e-books and audiobooks over physical libraries, leaving traditional reading spaces noticeably deserted.