Padmasambhava Public Library – Tso Pema, India

Hello Dear Friends,

We are raising funds to help the Louisiana Himalaya Association (LHA) and Lama Lena support a vital community resource in Rewalsar (Tso Pema – Lotus Lake): The Padmasambhava Public Library. Tso Pema is a sacred pilgrimage spot for Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Christians. It’s located in the Himalayas of Northern India.

We are asking for your financial support to help keep the library open and maintained so local and international visitors continue to have free access to a dedicated space for studying, contemplating, and fostering a sense of empowerment and connection.

Why: Padmasambhava Public Library was established by scholar Buchung Tenzin, who recognized that young people and pilgrims in Tso Pema needed a dedicated study space. Living, studying and practicing meditation in the caves above Tso Pema since 1984, Buchung Tenzin, a longtime friend and student of Lama Lena, spearheaded the library development initiative and has managed it as a volunteer since its opening ceremony in 2016. The opening was blessed by the presence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama who donated an entire floor of Buddhist texts.

On any given day, you will find dozens of students studying in the library. Many pilgrims who come to the holy town visit the library for its significant collection of Buddhist texts and works of ancient Indian scholars. There is around 1,500 library card holders total, all of whom obtained membership free of charge, which the library is committed to maintaining for all.

Goal: We are asking for donations to help keep this important public service in Tso Pema open and maintained. The library needs $3300 annually for rent, maintenance, and ongoing development.

All seven library employees are volunteers; they assist visitors, upkeep cleaning, and maintain a collection of thousands of eclectic books, including novels, gender studies, children’s books, exam preparation, and an extensive collection of spiritual works.

Want to join me in making a difference? 100% of your donation will go directly to supporting the financial needs of the Padmasambhava Public Library. There are no overhead expenses or managerial costs. LHA is a volunteer-staffed organization where all volunteers cover their own travel and related expenses.

We hope you will consider contributing to this important cause and visit the site to appreciate its significance to rising scholars, leaders, pilgrims, and community members. Your donations, big or small, will have an immediate, long-lasting impact.

Thank you for your generosity!

Kadie Rome