In the remote village of Halmathpora, nestled in the scenic landscapes of north Kashmir's Kupwara district, a young man named Mubashir Mushtaq embarked on a remarkable endeavor that would forever change the lives of children in his community. Driven by a desire to uplift society and eradicate child labor, Mubashir single-handedly established a free library, becoming a beacon of hope and inspiration for others.

The seed of this noble initiative was planted when Mubashir witnessed numerous children from neighboring villages trapped in the clutches of child labor, deprived of education due to a lack of books. He was determined to make a difference when he realized how difficult it was to procure books during Covid-19 restrictions.

Undeterred by the challenges ahead, Mubashir collected books from his friends, professors, and even the generous residents of Kupwara and his native village. These contributions laid the foundation for the establishment of the 'Let's Talk Library' in July 2022, an endeavor that garnered support from both near and far.

Initially Mubashir met with skepticism from his parents, but his unwavering dedication soon won them over. They became staunch believers in his cause when they witnessed children from far-flung places flocking to study at the library. Mubashir's father even took up the responsibility of covering the library's annual rent of Rs 15,000.

Currently, the library boasts a growing community of 52 registered students who has the opportunity to read over 3,000 diverse books. Ranging from competitive texts to English and Urdu literature, from Islamic writings to academic resources, the library offers a vast array of knowledge. Magazines and newspapers also grace its shelves, broadening the horizons of eager readers.

Mubashir's efforts did not end with the provision of books alone. Under his 'Our Kids Our Future' initiative, over a hundred children gather at the library every Sunday, engaging in activities that nurture their personalities, foster English speaking skills, and cultivate public speaking abilities.

Mubashir is determined to steer the youth away from the perils of drug addiction and instill in them a love for reading, enabling them to discover the true value of life. Furthermore, Mubashir envisions making study materials easily accessible to those who cannot afford private coaching, ensuring that knowledge becomes a gateway to a brighter future for all.

Through his free library, Mubashir has opened doors to new worlds, empowering children and igniting a passion for learning that will shape generations to come.