This 18th Century Library in Ooty is a Bibliophile’s Delight #HiddenGem #Ooty #Nilgiris

When one thinks of Ooty, the foremost visuals are of verdant hills of Nilgiri, aroma of fresh tea leaves and the whiff of cold winds. Ootacamund or more popularly Ooty, once among the Britisher's favorite hill stations, is still the most sought-after tourist destination. It enjoys a pleasant weather throughout the year.

While there are many staple touristy things to do here, very few know of a library which is almost 160 year old. Non-Members and Tourists are strictly prohibited. But thanks to my friend who is a native of Ooty, I got a permission to enter. If you are a fervent reader, you are in for a treat.

Situated next to SBI bank, the library is inconspicuous located in the midst of lush Cyprus and Eucalyptus trees. As you enter the gates, the first thing you will notice is the Gothic style red and white color-scheme, archetypal of Colonial era.

Few facts about the library:

1) Its foundation was laid in 1859 and the doors to members were open in 1869.

2) The land was bought for Rs. 2,250 and the building was completed at a cost of Rs. 25,468.

3) The library boasts of a colossal collection of around 50,000 rare books, magazines, journals and biographies. There are many books on Toda tribe, natives of Ooty region.

There are two ways to gain the membership: through reference or Rs. 20,000 for full lifetime fees. One can also opt for temporary one month membership for around Rs 500.

Once inside the library, notice the sylvan flooring lending a classic Victorian charm. The huge arched-windows fill the reading room with ample natural light.

There are two floors: Ground and First floor. There is also a pièce de résistance section, where books can be read in-premises but not issued or borrowed.

As you go upstairs, hanging on the wall is a portrait of Queen Victoria presented to Ooty on her 1887 Golden Jubilee.

Over the years the library has struggled with the ravages of time. The leaky roofs and fungus have deteriorated many rare and priceless books. So don’t be surprised if you find “under-renovation” sign board. The good news is, thanks to the generous grants from SBI bank, Govt authorities and its own members, it got the much-needed cashflow for restoration.

As you leave the library, engulfing in nostalgia is imminent. It is like a bridge between the present and the past. Library's motto is ‘Abeunt Studia In Mores' which translates to ‘studies pass into habits'.

I hope the legacy of this library is protected with full enthusiasm, so that the joyous habit of reading and telling stories can be equally shared with our future generations.