Ex-Diplomat Transforms Puri Home Into Free Library

In Puri, former Indian Foreign Service officer Malaya Mishra has dedicated his post-retirement years to social service by establishing the 'Sarojini Devi Memorial Library.' Opened in 2021 and named after his late mother, the library near Mochi Sahi Chowk has become a vital learning center for students, currently serving over 600 registered individuals. Mishra, 71, actively teaches subjects like political science, law, and English, sharing insights from his diplomatic career to develop students' analytical skills.

The library, which houses more than 5,000 books collected by Mishra globally, offers a serene environment for learning and community engagement. It operates daily except Mondays, from 1 pm to 8 pm, attracting an average of 30-35 students daily. This initiative significantly contributes to educational access in Puri, where other public library facilities are limited or non-operational.

Mishra's goal was to give back to society, and the library has already seen many students secure government jobs. Beyond academics, it serves as a hub for social and cultural activities. The facility, managed by a librarian and support staff, also provides access to computers, newspapers, and magazines, enriching the learning experience for Puri's youth.