Islamabad: In a significant move to revive the region’s literary heritage and foster a culture of reading, the 90-year-old historic Lajpat Rai Public Library in Jhelum has been officially restored and reopened to the public. The newly renovated library was inaugurated by the Minister of State for Finance and Railways, Bilal Azhar Kayani, accompanied by Gagan Shahid, a prominent literary figure from Jhelum, alongside local scholars, writers, and notable personalities.

According to Press Information Department: During a press conference held within the library premises, Minister Bilal Azhar Kayani expressed his joy at reinstating Jhelum’s historical and intellectual landmark after nine decades. He extended gratitude to Jhelum Deputy Commissioner Meer Reza Ozgen, Gagan Shahid and Amar Shahid of Book Corner Jhelum, and all individuals who contributed to this project.

The library, originally established in 1936 by Lala Goranditta Mal in memory of his father, Lala Ladha Shah Bindra, was later named after Lala Lajpat Rai, a hero of the subcontinent’s independence movement. The original inauguration took place on May 3, 1936, led by Dr. Gopi Chand Bhargava.

The renovation preserved the building’s cultural beauty and historic charm while transforming it into a modern learning hub. The library now includes 500 new books, organized by subject on wooden bookshelves, and for the first time, a full-time librarian will be appointed. The space is also newly furnished to create a comfortable environment for readers.

Minister Kayani emphasized the library as an architectural monument that attracts visitors and highlighted its role in intellectual growth. The government plans to invite literary and academic figures from across Pakistan to host seminars and gatherings at the library.