Travelling library is a term used to describe a library that moves from one location to another, providing access to books and other materials to people who may not have easy access to a fixed library. The word "travelling" is spelled with two 'l's because it is a verb form that indicates movement. The sound of 'l' is represented as /l/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), and the spelling of the word reflects that sound. The word "library" is spelled with two 'r's because it represents a sound that is pronounced with a distinct rolling of the tongue, represented as /r/ in IPA.
A travelling library is a mobile collection of books and materials that is circulated among various locations to provide reading materials and resources to individuals who may not have access to a permanent library. This portable library typically consists of a variety of books, magazines, newspapers, and other printed materials, organized in a systematic manner to cater to the diverse interests and age groups of its users.
The concept of a travelling library originated as a solution to the problem of reaching out to people in remote areas or underserved communities, where the establishment of a fixed library may not be feasible or practical. This mobile library aims to bring the joy of reading, knowledge, and information to people who would otherwise have limited or no access to books.
The operation of a travelling library often involves a team of librarians or volunteers who plan the routes, manage the borrowing and returning process, and conduct various literary activities such as storytelling sessions and book clubs. They may use different modes of transportation, such as vans, bicycles, or even camels, depending on the location and terrain they serve.
Travelling libraries play a vital role in promoting literacy, education, and intellectual growth by fostering a love for reading and learning. They serve as a bridge to connect individuals from diverse backgrounds and empower them with knowledge, imagination, and the tools for personal development.
The word "travelling library" is a compound term composed of the words "travelling" and "library".
- "Travelling" is the present participle form of the verb "travel", which originates from the Middle English word "travaylen", a combination of the Old French words "travailler" (to work, to suffer) and "travail" (work, labor). It further traces back to the Latin word "tripaliāre", which means to torture or afflict.
- "Library" comes from the Latin word "librarium" or "liber" (book). It referred to a place where books were kept or a collection of books. The term "library" became prevalent in the English language around the 14th century.