The Departments of Social Work and Khasi from Captain Williamson Sangma State University (CWSSU), Shillong Campus, in collaboration with the Department of Music from Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU), inaugurated the Raibah Living Library on 1st November 2025 at Raibah Village, South West Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya.
Themed “A Step in Futurity,” the initiative reimagines libraries as living spaces of shared stories, creativity, and community experience.
Funded by Royal Enfield and Green Hub, the Raibah Living Library embodies a commitment to environmental consciousness, indigenous knowledge revival, and participatory learning. The event began with a warm village reception, a transect walk, and school interactions reflecting child participation and community-based education. The inauguration, led by representatives from Green Hub, symbolized meaningful collaboration between educational institutions and local communities.
Storytelling sessions by Meirit Wissila Snaitang and Esbilin Snaitang on Khasi freedom fighter Sngap Sing Syiem brought oral history and local heritage vividly to life. This was followed by a series of cultural and educational performances, including a short drama by the Department of Khasi, a traditional Langai dance, and songs presented by students from Raibah and Tlongpleng schools. Traditional games such as Nature Trails, Mawpoint, and Dienghai encouraged guests to experience indigenous play-based learning.
The Department of Music, MLCU, made a vibrant and integral contribution to the event.
On the eve of the inauguration, the Music Department enlivened the community with the resonant beats of the ksing (traditional drum), mobilizing villagers for the event. The evening also featured phawar and traditional songs performed by community members, fostering a spirit of togetherness. Dr. Mebanlamphang Lyndoh conducted an engaging interactive session with children from the community prior to the inauguration, introducing them to the joy of music through participatory learning.
During the inauguration, the Music Department provided live background music for a theatrical performance presented by the Department of Khasi, CWSSU. The day concluded on a harmonious note with captivating performances by the MLCU music ensemble, presenting popular Khasi folk songs and Garo melodies including “Tiar Put Tiar Tem” by Darilin Jovita Masharing and “Hoi Kiw” by Prinstone Sutnga, among others filling the atmosphere with cultural pride and unity.
Special appreciation is extended to Mr. Randolph V. Langstieh, Head, Department of Social Work, CWSSU, for his leadership and guidance, and to the entire CWSSU team whose dedication, collaboration, and vision made the Raibah Living Library a reality an enduring symbol of community, culture, and creativity in education.