Char Khirati’s Library: A Beacon of Knowledge

I went to visit the Bashundhara Shuvosangho Library in Char Khirati, and what I witnessed was truly inspiring. Unlike the usual rush of students immediately after school or college hours, the visitors during this late-night period come directly from their homes, workplaces, or other daily responsibilities. They arrive here with a clear purpose—to engage with books and newspapers in a peaceful, undisturbed environment. The absence of mobile phones or social distractions allows them to focus entirely on learning, reflection, and intellectual growth. It is remarkable to see not only students but also young professionals and elderly mentors deeply immersed in reading, silently exploring knowledge across multiple disciplines. The atmosphere embodies a blend of concentration and calmness, highlighting the library’s role as a space for both educational and spiritual enrichment.

During Maghrib, everyone respectfully paused to offer their evening prayers. This simple act reflects the library’s unique position in nurturing both ethical and spiritual values. It is not merely a place for consuming information but a centre where moral and spiritual sensibilities are actively cultivated. The library houses over 3,000 books along with five daily newspapers, four in Bengali and one in English, covering Islamic studies, spirituality, philosophy, personal development, psychology, and science. This diverse collection ensures that students and other visitors not only gain knowledge but also develop critical thinking, ethical awareness, and human values essential for holistic growth.

Mentorship and Holistic Learning

Beyond reading, the library functions as a mentorship hub where learning extends into discussion and interaction. Regular reading circles, essay readings, poetry recitations, and even speaking and pronunciation training for younger children take place here. For many young adults who previously spent late evenings on mobile phones or casual social gatherings, the library now offers a transformative experience—a space to reflect, learn, and draw inspiration. Visitors engage deeply with scholarly and spiritual materials, which strengthen both their intellectual and moral capacities while fostering social responsibility.

The environment here is both competitive and friendly. Visitors sometimes playfully compete for seating or who gets to read a particular book first, yet this competition does not disrupt learning; instead, it instils discipline, patience, and mutual respect. Observing students engrossed in books amidst the quiet of night is profoundly heartening. The library cultivates focus, curiosity, and ethical awareness, shaping the minds and hearts of those who come here.

Proposed Additions to the Library Collection

To further enrich the learning environment, I propose the addition of several key books that can inspire students to explore, reflect, and grow in knowledge and character:

Islamic and Spiritual Studies: Raheeq-ul-Makhtum (2 Volumes) by Allama Shafiur Rahman Mubarakpuri (RA) offers detailed accounts of the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the journeys of the prophets, providing deep spiritual and ethical insights. Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya Ulum al-Din emphasises moral development and personal spirituality, while works by Maulana Azhar provide practical guidance on daily Islamic ethics. Prem o Bhakti by Rabia al-Adawiyya explores inner peace through devotion, and additional Sunnah- and Quran-based self-development books help cultivate personal integrity and social responsibility.

Philosophical and Self-development Books: Epictetus’ Enchiridion introduces Stoic philosophy for facing life’s challenges with equanimity. Rabindranath Tagore’s Jogbani emphasises humanism and ethical reflection, while Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends & Influence People builds leadership and interpersonal skills. Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning inspires readers to seek purpose and mental resilience.

Psychological and Scientific Books: Books on the brain and mindfulness provide insights into human cognition and behaviour. Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People develops personal and professional competencies. Robin Sharma’s The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari combines life lessons, ethics, and self-improvement. Introductory psychology texts offer a foundational understanding of human behaviour and thought.

Books Inspiring Good Deeds: Ilm o Manobota by Nasiruddin Tusi blends scientific and humanitarian thinking, while Muhammad Yunus’ Banker to the Poor motivates readers through stories of social service. Additionally, tales from Hilful Fuzul and other Islamic ethical stories instil lessons in justice, honesty, and moral responsibility.

Char Khirati’s Bashundhara Shuvosangho Library has already become a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment for students, youth, and adults. With the addition of these suggested books, the library can become even more comprehensive, offering a richer, ethically inspiring, and intellectually stimulating environment. It stands as a true lighthouse of learning, guiding the community toward knowledge, reflection, and moral excellence.

The writer is a lecturer at Brave Jubilant Scholars of Monohardi Model College (BJSM Model College) in Narsingdi. He can be reached at: towfiqsultan.help@gmail.com