A Mother’s Mission: Setting Up Libraries Across India for Daughter’s Birthday
In the realm of philanthropy, few initiatives are as deeply transformative as those that ignite a love for reading and learning. Today, we celebrate the inspiring journey of Nandini Priya Rabelli, whose dedication has brought the joy of books to thousands of children, creating ripples of change across communities in India.
A Mother’s Mission: From Love to Action
Nandini, now based overseas, embarked on this journey with her daughter Leela, whose passion for storybooks fueled a mission to share that same love with children in need. What began as a personal commitment to nurturing Leela’s imagination has blossomed into a movement that spans across libraries in Karnataka and Telangana, India
Three Years of Impact: A Legacy of Learning
In 2021, Nandini’s first campaign brought 1,000 children’s books to libraries in 10 Gram Panchayats in Udupi, Karnataka. The following year, 1,300 more books found their way to the Sai Spandan Trust in Warangal, benefiting 200 students, many of whom are orphans or come from underprivileged backgrounds. And in 2023, the reach expanded further with 1,400 books distributed across three schools under the Rural Development Foundation in Warangal, touching the lives of 1,500 students.
Why It Matters: The Power of Books in Rural Communities
Books are more than just pages filled with words—they are gateways to new worlds, tools for empowerment, and beacons of hope. In rural areas, where access to quality education and resources is often limited, libraries become sanctuaries of learning and imagination. Nandini’s campaigns, in partnership with Pratham Books, not only fill shelves but also open minds, enabling children to explore, question, and grow.
Overcoming Challenges, Creating Change
The journey wasn’t without its challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a decline in donations to educational causes, but Nandini remained undeterred. Her belief in the power of early childhood education propelled her forward. With each campaign, she tapped into the collective power of community, using blogs, social media, and a dedicated YouTube channel to share stories of impact and rally support.
The Future: A Vision for Lasting Change
Nandini’s work is far from complete. She envisions creating thriving, vibrant community libraries in Telangana, India that unite not only children but also adults, fostering a shared love of reading. Her dream is to ensure that the gift of books continues to inspire and educate future generations. Nandini’s journey is a powerful reminder that investing in books is an investment in the future—a future that is brighter, more connected, and filled with endless possibilities.
Join the Movement: Be Part of the Change
The impact of Nandini’s campaigns is clear: thousands of children now have access to books that enrich their lives and broaden their horizons. But there is still so much more we can do.
By supporting Pratham Books’ Donate-a-Book campaigns, you can help write new stories in the lives of children across India. Every contribution, big or small, has the power to transform communities and create a future where every child can learn, dream, and thrive. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a special occasion, or simply your love for books, your donation makes a lasting impact.Â
Join us in spreading the joy of reading and changing lives, one book at a time.
Images in the blog are taken from the Telangana campaigns supported by Nandini Priya Rabelli
