In partnership with Michelin, Asha inaugurated a library at JJ Nagar, Palavakkam.
JJ Nagar, Palavakkam Library Inauguration
You may view the album here.
Over the years, Asha has established libraries across our projects with the vision of creating welcoming spaces for reading and self-study. Located in rural areas, these libraries open their doors to underprivileged children from Asha-supported schools as well as nearby government schools, offering them a safe and supportive environment to learn and grow. More than just collections of books, they have become vibrant community hubs where children can explore ideas, nurture curiosity, and build confidence.
Each library is staffed with dedicated teachers who guide students through a variety of engaging activities. Children begin their daily visit by spending the first 30 minutes on homework, after which teachers introduce them to activities like reading newspapers and storybooks, practicing card reading, learning Tamil songs or stories, exploring English books, conducting simple experiments, or creating crafts. One laptop is provided to the teacher which is used by students to watch short educational videos and learn basic computer skills. These libraries are not only places of study but also gateways to imagination, creativity, and lifelong learning.
Asha libraries at Thiruvallur
In Thiruvallur, Asha had been running two libraries, one at Seethanjeri and the other at Anna Nagar. The Seethanjeri library was run until December 2024 and discontinued later due to staffing issues. The Anna Nagar library is run by Ms. Nivetha and continues to operate through the year. The library is open from 5.00-6.30 PM from Monday to Saturday, where children spend time doing their homework, reading or doing some activities during their time there. Sundal or peanuts are usually distributed to the kids.
Michelin India at Thiruvallur
Michelin’s initiative, “My Village, My Pride” program, provides an opportunity for its employees to assist in the development of their village. A few employees of Michelin from JJ Nagar wanted to take up this village as part of this program. Michelin approached Asha to establish a new library at JJ Nagar in the Ellapuram block of Thiruvallur district. The children from this village go to PUPS Palavakkam school that is located about 2 Kms away. Asha has been working with this school for more than 10 years. Asha also has a history of running a mini-school during Covid at JJ Nagar. Therefore, we were happy that Michelin selected JJ Nagar for their “My Village, My Pride” program as we were well aware of the need of this village.
This village has a large Irula population. The Irula (Irular) community, an indigenous Dravidian ethnic group in Southern India, is classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group. JJ Nagar has a significant Irula population, where many children face challenges such as poverty and limited awareness about the importance of education, factors that often lead to school dropouts.
This new library offers a safe, welcoming space for children to learn and grow, fostering reading and continuous learning to strengthen education and inspire students to stay engaged.
We started getting the place ready by starting on the civil work needed. Broken windows were replaced, fans and lights were installed and we fixed new doors. The facility was given a new coat of paint as well.
Asha volunteer, Mr. Rajaraman and Mr. Anbarasu, who manages the CSR and HR at Michelin, visited the facility when it was getting ready to take stock of the situation and to ensure the work was progressing as planned.
Once the library was ready, students started coming in by 16 February,2026.
Inauguration Function
The library was inaugurated on 26 February, 2026, Thursday by Mr. Jean-François Rene, Executive Director Michelin India / Site Director – Michelin Industrial Plant, Chennai and Mr. Rajaraman, Volunteer and Coordinator for Asha Chennai. The event was attended by Mr. Anbarasu C, HR General Administration, 15 other Michelin employees, Asha staff and the HM of PUPS Palavakkam school, Ms. Chinthamani. You may watch the video here.
The library is now managed by Asha librarian, Ms. Maariyamal B, who runs it from 5-7 pm. Nearly 60 students from around the area visit the library and spend time doing homework, reading or craft work.