As Srila Prabhupad always said, "Books are the basis". The importance of the distribution of the transcendental literature as presented by Srila Prabhupad cannot be overstated. On numerous occasions, it has been seen how Srila Prabhupad placed greater stress on the publication and distribution of books over and above the building of temples or any other activity of the society. It was on the strength of Srila Prabhupad’s transcendental books that the mission of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was spread throughout the world. This was the mood of his spiritual master, Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Thakur Prabhupad, as well, who published volumes upon volumes of transcendental literature. Therefore, book distribution remains to be one of the most important services to be performed by the devotees of Iskcon.

In order to distribute books and preach the Krishna consciousness movement far and wide, ISKCON Ahobilam distributes Books in Ahobilam and Iskcon Centers. Be it severe cold, intense heat, or the monsoon season, devotees go out just to distribute the treasure house of vedic knowledge to the suffering souls. Due to the sincere endeavors of the devotees serving in this department, millions of people have been given a progressive spiritual direction in life by reading Srila Prabhupad’s books that they received from the devotees.

In addition to going out to distribute books throughout the year, a special marathon is conducted during the entire month of December to celebrate the occasion of Gitajayanti and is dedicated to distributing BHAGAVAD-GITA AS IT IS throughout India. Thousand of Bhagavad-gitas are sponsored by donors for free or concessional distribution to students, libraries, prisons, etc., so that this glorious knowledge may be made available to one and all.