Know Your Teacher: ‘My journey at Apeejay School, Saket has been a rich tapestry of experiences’

Books help in multifarious ways. As one delves into the storyline and the pages keep on turning in sync mode, unconsciously the linguistic, grammar, vocabulary, expression keep sharpening. With every book you finish, you grow into a different person. 

And who better to explain the wonder of books, than the person surrounded in their magical presence for almost 30 years. Let us read how a book helps shape a better tomorrow from the powerful words of Ms Vibhuti Katyal, the senior librarian at Apeejay School, Saket.

To begin with ma’am, please tell us about your experience at the school?

Having served as the senior librarian in Apeejay School, Saket for the past 26 years, my journey has woven a rich tapestry of experiences. I’ve witnessed the evolution of technologies, adapted my approach to meet the changing curriculum demands, worked actively to nurture a passion for reading amongst students and over time, developed a profound understanding with the school community. Throughout this period, my legacy is defined by creating an inclusive and vibrant library space that continues to shape generations of learners.

In an age when movies are preceding books, why do you believe a library is still essential?

A library brimming with books, retains its enduring allure and significance, unlike movies that quickly lose their charm with time. Books act as fertile soil for imagination and provide more details than the visual limits of movies. They enhance both writing skills and foster creative and critical thinking simultaneously.

Movies typically run for about two hours, whereas books can go on for hundreds of pages filled with descriptions. Without realising it, as you read a captivating novel, you’re enhancing your spelling, punctuation, and grammar skills. Studies show that individuals who read more tend to be more successful in their lives. 

Also, think about it, while watching a movie you may not think about turning a movie into a book, but many good films are originally based on books. Literature might shape a movie, yet its enduring brilliance and immortal essence ensure that it maintains a timeless glow and has an everlasting existence.

What are the most issued books at Apeejay Saket? Do the students here love to read?

At Apeejay School, Saket, students primarily borrow teenage English fiction. We are also seeing an increase in students issuing and reading  Bhagavad Gita, thanks to our monthly Geeta Varta sessions. There is also a sizable readership for self-help books. 

It’s a source of pride to share that our students not only read avidly but also contribute to the literary world, with many students having published their own books and several others currently immersed in the writing process. Only in a recent book club meeting at the school, we had a stimulating discussion about a book authored by a ninth grade student.

 That’s splendid! Clearly the journey at Apeejay Saket has helped you grow so much!

Apeejay School Saket consistently provides new avenues for professional development, encourages collaboration with other teachers for curriculum integration, and embraces technological advancements, notably transitioning the library into a digital space. All these help in fostering a culture of continuous learning while creating a welcoming environment that grants me the freedom to enhance and promote a reading culture among students and staff members.

Do you love to read avidly? What genre of books are your favourite?

Certainly! I thoroughly enjoy reading books and engage in long discussions about them. My preferred genre is self-help and motivational books.

Your words of wisdom for the school students on books and reading

Dive into different genres to find what captures your interest. Allocate dedicated time daily for reading , set your reading goals, and feel free to seek book recommendations from friends or the library. Keep in mind, reading unlocks doors to new worlds and endless possibilities.