Turning Pages, Building Bonds In Pune: The Inspiring Journey Of Bavdhan’s Pebbles 2 Library
Turning Pages, Building Bonds In Pune: The Inspiring Journey Of Bavdhan's Pebbles 2 Library
In an age where screens often replace pages and scrolling outweighs reading, a beacon of wisdom quietly thrives in the heart of Pune. Nestled in the vibrant community of Pebbles 2 in Bavdhan, a unique initiative has been shaping minds and enriching souls — the Pebbles 2 Library, a labor of love created by the residents, for the residents.
What sets this library apart is not just the collection of over 1,500 books, but the heartwarming story behind its inception. The idea took root in 2021, when Mr. Arpit Badwaik, a new resident and an avid reader himself, noticed that while the society offered a range of modern amenities, it lacked a serene space for readers — a place to rest not just the body, but the mind. Inspired by his son’s deep love for reading, Mr. Badwaik envisioned an in-house, community-powered library, where books would not be a luxury but a shared joy.
And so, a concept turned into reality.
Now in its 4th successful year, the Pebbles 2 Library stands as a shining example of what collective will and shared vision can achieve. Incredibly, not a single book has been purchased — every title that graces the shelves has been lovingly donated by residents, making this library a true reflection of community generosity and trust.
But what truly makes this library magical is its custodians — the Senior Citizens of Pebbles 2, who selflessly manage the library three days a week, without fail. Their quiet commitment has become the backbone of this initiative, transforming a dream into a lasting legacy.
These exceptional individuals include:
- Anuradha Patil, who brings a librarian’s discipline and a poet’s heart to organizing shelves.
- Arti Deshpande, known for her meticulous cataloging and infectious enthusiasm.
- Geetanjali Hatgandi, who greets every visitor with warmth and wisdom.
- Madhavi Visal, the quiet force behind maintaining order and decorum.
- Sanjeev Kusurkar, whose sharp memory and wit make every book recommendation a delight.
- Sampda Gaisas, whose calming presence turns the library into a sanctuary.
- Anagha Gunjal, the ever-curious spirit who encourages children to explore new genres.
- Swati Surve, admired for her punctuality and gentle mentoring of young volunteers.
- Sumedha Rajguru, who infuses the space with her grace and thoughtful suggestions.
- Kunal Deshpande, a bridge between generations, bringing energy and structure to the operations.
Their collective spirit has inspired even the youngest members of the community — children who now eagerly volunteer to clean, stack, and organize books. The recent book stacking event, proudly presented as a summer school project by many children, was a delightful reminder that this space is more than a library — it is a cradle of intergenerational bonding.
In a world increasingly ruled by digital distractions, the Pebbles 2 Library has become a sanctuary of stories, where curiosity replaces screen time, and the rustle of pages outshines the ping of notifications. It is not just a haven for avid readers but a symbol of community empowerment, creativity, and shared values.
This is not merely a room full of books — it is a movement, a message, and a model.
Let Pebbles 2 Library be a clarion call to other residential communities: You don’t need a massive budget or a corporate sponsor to build something meaningful. All it takes is vision, unity, and the will to give. A library doesn’t have to be grand — it just needs to be open.
The Pebbles 2 Library is more than a space. It is a story — one that inspires, educates, and continues to grow with every page turned.
