State Minister Nara Lokesh said that reading books provides useful information. Students should develop a reading habit as early as possible. Consistent reading supports personal development and long-term learning, he said.
In Mangalagiri, Guntur district, the local library, which was set up in 1986 by former Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao, was upgraded. The cost of the project is Rs. 1.72 crore, including the government's share of funds and private donations. The modernized library was inaugurated by Minister Lokesh on Thursday. The Minister spent some time reading inside the facility. Library Parishad Chairman Gonuguntla Koteswara Rao and State Technology Services Chairman Mannava Mohanakrishna were present.
Minister Lokesh also inaugurated a park in Kondapaneni Township, which falls under Mangalagiri and Tadepalli city limits. The park was constructed with CSR funds of Rs 1.23 crore. Power Mech Foundation had contributed this amount to extend support for better public amenities to the locals.
He launched Inclusion Centers in 200 libraries across the State to promote digital literacy and skill development. The initiative, which began from Mangalagiri, involves support from Dell and the Training Foundation. Each selected library was given two computers, a smart TV, and smartphones.
Internet access for one year will be provided by the partner organizations. These devices address digital skills, general literacy, and spoken English for children. Visitors will be able to access these resources during open hours of the libraries.