Noida: With the academic year drawing to a close, the annual textbook exchange initiative is set to gather pace in Noida. The Maghdutam Rangmanch team will host the free textbook exchange fair at Maghdootam Park in Sector 50 on Sunday from 10am to 1pm.In a first, this year’s event will be simultaneously hosted at five additional locations – Alok Vihar 2 in Sector 50, Apex Athena apartment complex and Golf City Club in Sector 75, Cleo County in Sector 121, and the Noida Public Library in Sector 15.The fest, hosted under the banner of Daryaganj, The Annual Used Textbook Donation Mela, is inspired by the tradition of Delhi’s Daryaganj book market, known for its second-hand book sales. Designed to promote the art of giving and sharing within the community, the fest encourages residents to donate school textbooks they no longer need at the end of the academic year and take home others that can help them in the coming academic year.Vinod Agarwal from the Meghdutam Rangmanch team, which organises cultural and social events at the park, noted the significance of this year’s expanded initiative. “Books left after the exchange will be collected by the Noida Public Library to benefit schools in their network,” he added.According to Agarwal, the Daryaganj concept is not only about exchanging books, it also highlights the joy of sharing knowledge and resources, solidifying the values of community spirit and support.“We are thrilled to increase accessibility by having multiple donation points. This pushes forward the idea of reusing textbooks while fostering a sense of community,” he said.Gurvinder Singh, also from the Meghdutam, said that the event has gained popularity over the years and they anticipate a good turnout this year as well, adding, “We’ve seen a great response, and more locations this year can only enhance that.”“The aim is to inspire others in the community to hold similar events, spreading the message of giving and sustainability in education,” said Anuja Agrawal, another member.In past editions of the event, hundreds of textbooks across a wide range of subjects exchanged hands. “Typically, we see around 500 textbooks exchanged each March, along with 200 general books throughout the year during our monthly events,” said Vinod Agarwal.He urged residents and book lovers to participate in the event, not only to gain access to free educational material but also to contribute to a noble cause. “The fair promises to be a wonderful opportunity for families to refresh their children’s study materials while fostering a culture of sharing,” he added.
