No locks, no librarian, only trust: Nagaland libraries run on honesty, community spirit, and shared knowledge. You can take a book for free and return it after completing reading

Nestled in the hills of Northeast India, Nagaland is a destination known for its lush landscapes, tribal culture, scenic valleys, and untouched natural beauty. From verdant green hills and picturesque hamlets to vibrant traditions and colorful festivals, Nagaland offers a unique blend of heritage, adventure and fresh experiences. Often called the Land of Festivals, this enchanting state captivates travelers with its warm hospitality, diverse indigenous communities, and stunning panoramic views. But do you know that there are some villages in Nagaland, where purchasing books from libraries is based simply on trust?

Free library in Nagaland village

For example, Kigwema village, located among the stands as one of the oldest Angami Naga villages, is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and communal ethics. The Community Library in this hamlet is a noble initiative that challenges the conventional notions of learning.



Shocking as it may sound, this library has no locks, registers, or formal rules, as per a report by The Better India. The shelves are loaded with a collection of books, ranging across multiple genres, but no one is there to guard them. There are no librarians or caretakers and book lovers can pick a book, completely free of cost, take it home, and return it after finishing reading. Yes, the tradition is based on sheer trust and believing in the good in people.

More about free libraries

The Kigwema library was established by two brothers, Akho and Thepfukelie Phira, in July 2021, as per The Better India, to cultivate the culture of reading not only among students but also among bookworms, the elderly, and other villages. The library’s openness and accessible space allow anyone to peruse its contents at leisure. Over the years, the library has expanded, comprising over 600 volumes, amassed through contributions from residents and well-wishers beyond the village.

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Last year, travel filmmaker Kanishk Gupta posted a similar story on his Instagram account about Nagaland’s Dzuleke village. According to him, some shops in the village run on self-payment options where customers can pick any item of their choice, be it packaged products, fruits, or vegetables, and pay for it by putting the money inside designated cash boxes. As a result, there are no vendors. Additionally, much like in Kigwema, Kanshishk revealed that Nagaland’s Khonoma village follows a similar tradition of free libraries.