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Comics for all: How Rajapalayam in Tamil Nadu became home to India’s first comic library

The library of comics isn’t about syllabus-based education. It’s about using comics as a visual treat to energise students, spark curiosity, and nurture a love for reading and exploration.

Subash Chandra Bose

Published Mar 05, 2025 | 8:00 AM ⚊ Updated Mar 05, 2025 | 8:00 AM

Comic Library

Though primarily aimed at children aged between five and 14 years, the library has drawn the attention of adults who appreciate the charm and nostalgia of comics.

Synopsis: Operating on a public library module, any school student can register and access the library’s collection. So far, 400 students have already become members, enjoying the vast array of titles available.

Think Rajapalayam, and the image of a sleek hound crosses the mind. It is, however, going to change.

The change began with a tweet by Virudhunagar District Collector VP Jeyaseelan three months ago. The 2014 IAS officer had then tweeted about the development of the Virudhunagar district bordering Kerala.

The tweet received a lot of attention. Among those who took notice was Abishek Ramanuja, co-founder of The Comic Library, a Chennai-based initiative focused on promoting comics as an educational tool.

Enthused by the idea of contributing to the district’s growth, Ramanuja offered a free comic workshop in Virudhunagar.

A comic book enthusiast himself, Jeyaseelan arranged a meeting. What began as a simple exchange on X soon led to the birth of India’s first-ever exclusive comics library in Rajapalayam, a tier-two city in Tamil Nadu, on 8 February.

Also Read: Comic Con India arrives in Chennai

A library like no other

With a budget of ₹15 lakh, the library was set up to house over 1,000 titles, both international and national. Individuals and organisations contributed 90% of the books. Located near Raja Kottai, the library’s goal is to enhance students’ learning skills through the power of illustrated storytelling.

Designed to be more than just a reading space, the library features vibrant colours interspersed with comic illustrations, creating an inviting and immersive environment for visitors of all ages. Although primarily aimed at children aged between five and 14 years, the space has drawn the attention of adults who appreciate the charm and nostalgia of comics.

“Comics for all,” Ramanuja said, emphasising the core mission of The Comic Library. Together with his co-founder, Nandhini Chilkam, he runs a digital comics platform and is passionate about making comics accessible to every section of society.

“No matter the background, everyone should have the opportunity to experience the magic of comics,” he asserted.

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A hybrid model 

Operating on a public library module, any school student can register and access the library’s collection. So far, 400 students have already become members, enjoying the vast array of titles available.

Children at the comic library.

Children at the comic library.

The library follows a hybrid digital model, allowing readers to explore comics both physically and online.

The collection spans from classic comics published since 1965 to contemporary releases. Readers can find beloved international titles such as Tintin and Asterix and Obelix, translated into Tamil, alongside cherished local comics like Ambuli Mama, Neethi Kathaigal, and Bharathiyar Stories.

Digital access ensures that students can read globally renowned comics like DC Comics, Marvel, and Naruto using the library’s computer stations.

Recognising India’s growing enthusiasm for comics, the Rajapalayam initiative aims to nurture that interest and establish a dedicated comics culture. The district’s rich history in printing, particularly that of Sivakasi, adds to the significance of launching this library in the region.

A community effort 

The Virudhunagar district administration has partnered with thecomiclibrary.com, which has voluntarily offered its digital collection for free. This ensures that financial barriers do not hinder any child from accessing the world of comics.

students from different schools and classes are quickly grasping historical lessons, including the stories of prominent leaders.

Students are quickly grasping historical lessons, including the stories of prominent leaders.

Beyond being a reading space, the library promotes interactive learning. Ramanuja shared that weekend programmes have been planned to enhance creativity among students. Activities include rewriting comics, performing skits inspired by popular characters, holding cosplay events, storytelling sessions, and even light-and-sound competitions based on comic narratives.

“This movement isn’t about syllabus-based education. It’s about using comics as a visual treat to energise students, spark curiosity, and nurture a love for reading and exploration,” he said.

As a result of the comic library, students from different schools and classes are quickly grasping historical lessons, including the stories of prominent leaders.

Harichandru, a 6th-standard student, visited the library for the first time and discovered the legacy of the Marudhu Sagodharargal and Velu Nachiyar, key figures in India’s independence movement. He later impressed his teacher by explaining their contributions in detail.

Another student, Shiam Kumar, explored the life of Kappalottiya Tamilan VO Chidambaram Pillai and remarked that the comic format made it easier to understand his struggles and achievements compared to reading traditional textbooks.

With the growing enthusiasm for comics, efforts are being made to expand the initiative to other taluks in the district within the next three months.

Rajapalayam has not just built a library—it has ignited a movement, using the power of comics to make history more engaging and accessible to a new generation of readers.

(Edited by Majnu Babu).

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