A cultural bridge between Goa and the UK through Goan Book Corner (O Heraldo)
Frederick Noronha
A cultural bridge between Goa and the UK through Goan Book Corner
Reading allows us to transcend boundaries and connect with distant worlds. It reveals the tapestry of history, geography, culture, and traditions that define a place—offering insights beyond what a visit alone can provide. Through books, readers gain global awareness, deepen empathy, and dismantle stereotypes by engaging with real lives and stories.
The Goan Book Corner at Swindon Central Library in the United Kingdom is a landmark initiative that brings Goa closer to Goans living abroad while introducing non-Goans to the state’s rich heritage. Conceived under the Goan Cultural & Heritage Collection by Councillor Domingos Seby Dias of Swindon’s Central Ward, the project is a treasure trove of Goan literature and culture.
The inauguration began with a prayer led by Fr Lucas Rodrigues, the Pilar Father serving as Parish Priest at Holy Rood, Swindon, and Goan Chaplain in the area. Fr Lucas praised Councillor Domingos for establishing the dedicated corner and highlighted its value, especially for Goan youth in Swindon who may visit Goa during holidays but lack opportunities to immerse themselves in its culture through reading.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council; Labour Deputy Mayor Neil Hopkins; and Councillors Imtiyaz Shaikh, Adorabelle Amaral Shaikh, Chris Watts, Janine Howarth, and John Firmin.
Councillor Domingos remarked,
“The Goan Book Corner is more than just a collection of books—it is a hub of knowledge and stories celebrating Goa’s rich history, culture, and heritage. I hope it becomes a centre for cultural exchange, learning, and community engagement.”
The collection currently features about 55 books on Goan history, culture, and heritage, purchased from Dogears Bookstore in Margao and shipped to the UK in March. Each book has been meticulously catalogued with accession numbers, spine and date labels, and soon, RFID tags for self-service scanning.
Leonard Fernandes of Dogears Bookshop curated the collection over six months, selecting works either about Goa or by Goan authors. The collection spans genres including fiction, poetry, cultural history, and biographies.
Domingos added,
“There is a wide readership in Swindon, particularly among children of Goan families born in the UK who may not be familiar with our cultural heritage.”
For the Goan diaspora in Swindon, this corner offers a meaningful connection to their roots. For others, it is an invitation to explore and appreciate the vibrant story of Goa.
_/ Frederick Noronha फ्रेडरिक नोरोन्या * فريدريك نورونيا
_/ AUDIO https://archive.org/details/@fredericknoronha
_/ http://goa1556.in +91-9822122436 784 Saligao Goa
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Jeanne Hromnik
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