From Awareness to Action: How Prateek Choraria’s Record Attempt Gave Libraries a Voice
Libraries once stood at the heart of learning, quietly shaping generations through books, research, and reflection. Today, however, their relevance is often questioned in a world dominated by smartphones, instant information, and digital platforms. For Prateek Choraria, a 43-year-old entrepreneur from Delhi, this gradual decline was not just a societal shift—it was a warning sign.
Prateek’s professional journey spans multiple industries, from textiles to technology-driven construction. Alongside his business achievements, he has built a fulfilling personal life, sharing his home with his wife and their 17-year-old daughter. Over the years, he developed a strong belief that true progress is meaningful only when it protects the foundations of education and critical thinking. Libraries, he felt, were one such foundation quietly slipping into neglect.
The realization became stronger as Prateek observed how learning habits were changing. Information was more accessible than ever, yet depth and discipline were being replaced by speed and convenience. Libraries, once symbols of structured knowledge, were witnessing falling footfall and limited support. Determined to understand the issue beyond assumptions, Prateek decided to look closer.
A Shared Concern That Sparked a Purpose
Around two years ago, Prateek met Sujoy, and what began as a friendship soon evolved into thoughtful discussions about education and learning spaces. Both noticed how resource centres and libraries were becoming invisible in daily life. Curious and concerned, they began interacting with libraries and their staff to understand the real situation.
One encounter changed everything. During their research, they met a library employee who had not been paid for 38 months. The gravity of the situation became undeniable. Libraries were not only losing visitors; they were struggling to sustain the people who kept them running. That moment turned concern into responsibility.
From that point onward, the idea of a Guinness World Record attempt emerged—not as a pursuit of recognition, but as a strategy to bring visibility to an overlooked issue.
An Attempt That Demanded Precision and Persistence
In April 2025, Prateek and Sujoy made their first official attempt to visit the maximum number of libraries within a set timeframe. The preparation required months of planning. Permissions had to be secured in advance, routes meticulously mapped, and documentation guidelines strictly followed. Each library came with its own protocols, security checks, and operating schedules.
Despite these challenges, the duo successfully visited 61 libraries in a single attempt—a feat that demanded intense coordination and endurance. However, the record was ultimately disapproved due to technical documentation issues.
Although disappointing, the outcome did not diminish their confidence. The experience offered clarity, highlighting areas for improvement while reaffirming the strength of the concept. More importantly, it reinforced their belief that the message was worth pursuing further.
Obstacles That Tested More Than Stamina
The journey was far from smooth. Several educational institutions denied entry due to security restrictions. Time management became a daily challenge, as libraries followed different opening hours and lunch breaks. The team used these gaps strategically, travelling longer distances during closures and often skipping meals to stay on schedule.
One particularly tense incident occurred at the American Embassy Library. In the rush to complete formalities, Prateek unknowingly took a photograph in a restricted area. Security was immediately alerted, and his identification documents were confiscated. After questioning and verification, he was allowed to proceed, but the incident served as a stark reminder of how fragile the attempt was.
Support That Reinforced the Cause
Amid resistance and fatigue, moments of encouragement stood out. FORE School of Management demonstrated exceptional cooperation, maintaining constant communication and even arranging professional photography after understanding the significance of the visit. Their support reflected the impact institutions can have when they actively value knowledge.
A Message Larger Than Any Record
For Prateek Choraria, the record attempt was never about setting numbers—it was about restoring attention. Libraries remain vital spaces of verified information, thoughtful learning, and intellectual integrity. In an era of information overload, they offer credibility and depth that digital platforms often lack.
Through determination and purpose, Prateek transformed a challenging record attempt into a meaningful statement—one that urges society to preserve its learning spaces before they fade into silence.
