Purple Fest 2025 was truly a special experience for all of us , four days filled with stories, conversations, and connections that will stay in our hearts for a long time. From the morning we began setting up our space, arranging books, adding playful elements, and placing the little reading tent, the excitement was real. We wanted our stall to feel like a piece of our library , warm, welcoming, and full of love.
Soon, people started walking in. Children crawled into the tent with picture books in their hands, adults curiously looked around, and some paused to read. The bioscope caught many eyes for some it was their first time seeing one, and for others, it brought back memories of childhood fairs. The message tree slowly filled with colourful notes, small drawings, and thoughtful words that visitors left behind. Every message felt like a gentle connection to the spirit of reading, and creativity and imagination that lives in our library.
Throughout the day, the space stayed filled with activity. Children made mindful bead strings, played with story baskets, created leaf art inspired by The Leaf Man, and played with the musical instruments of Giraffes Can’t Dance. There was one quiet, beautiful moment when two children one was partially visually impaired and another on the autism spectrum sat together and listened to a story. They played with the musical instruments, laughed, and engaged deeply with the book. It was one of those small but unforgettable moments that reminded us of the power of inclusive spaces.
Many visitors were drawn to our display about the Home Based Library (HBL) program. They were curious to know how we bring the library experience to children who may not be able to visit one. We explained how the HBL program takes books, and activities directly to children’s homes, helping families build small reading corners and developing a culture of reading together. Parents and educators appreciated this concept deeply. Several visitors said they had never imagined a library could reach homes in such a personal way. Some even asked how they could start something similar in their own cities.
One therapist shared his interest in collaborating on a session for parents to understand the HBL model better. Others, from schools and organisations across India, expressed how much theyd like to connect and learn more. It was really nice to see how the idea of an inclusive, home based library resonated with so many people.
As the festival came to an end, we looked around at our small but lively space, full of books, art, fun and conversations and felt immense pleasure. The Purple Fest gave us so much more than four days of activity. It gave us new friends, new possibilities, and a renewed belief in what stories can do.
A library isnt just a place filled with books it’s a space where people meet, share, imagine, and grow together. At Purple Fest, we saw this come along.